Revitalize Your Lungs: The Benefits of Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Navigating a chronic respiratory condition can be overwhelming, but there's hope for a better, more active life through pulmonary rehabilitation. “Pulmonary rehab is a multifaceted program that combines personalized exercise plans, breathing techniques and education about your condition, empowering you to breathe easier, manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life,” said Gregory Breen, M.D., a pulmonary, critical care and sleep specialist at Inspira Medical Group Pulmonary. Here’s what you need to know about pulmonary rehab and its benefits. 

What does pulmonary rehabilitation entail? 

Pulmonary rehabilitation addresses different aspects of lung health and overall wellness for those with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It involves:  
 

1. Personalized exercise classes: One of the core components of pulmonary rehabilitation is a customized fitness program. These targeted workouts focus on improving your cardiovascular health, muscle strength and overall endurance. Regular exercise can also help reduce symptoms and increase your capacity to perform daily activities.
2. One-on-one support: Pulmonary rehab offers individualized guidance from your doctor to address challenges you face, monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your exercise regimen, ensuring your care plan is meeting your needs.
3. Comprehensive education: Pulmonary rehab involves education about your condition and treatment plan as well as strategies for managing your symptoms, including understanding your triggers and how to avoid or manage them effectively.
4. Effective breathing techniques: “Breathing exercises teach you how to manage shortness of breath and improve lung function,” said Dr. Breen. “Techniques such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can help you take in more oxygen and expel carbon dioxide more efficiently, reducing feelings of breathlessness.”

What are the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation? 

Whether your goals are playing with your children or grandchildren, walking in the park or simply enjoying a good book without feeling breathless, pulmonary rehab can help you live a healthier, more fulfilling life. Some of its benefits include:
 

1. Improved endurance: As you progress, you’ll notice an increase in physical endurance, meaning you’ll be able to engage in activities for longer periods without feeling as winded. 
2. Increased exercise safety: “Hospital-trained respiratory therapists are on site to monitor your vital signs throughout each workout,” said Dr. Breen. This level of supervision ensures your overall safety and encourages adjustments to your training regimen as needed. 
3. Decreased discomfort: The combination of exercise, breathing techniques and education helps your body use oxygen more efficiently, making breathing easier and minimizing the discomfort of chronic breathlessness.
4. Improved outlook and well-being: Living with a chronic respiratory condition can take a toll on your mental and emotional health. Pulmonary rehab offers support for coping with anxiety and depression related to your condition, ensuring you feel supported and empowered. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation at Inspira offers comprehensive support to those struggling with chronic respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD and emphysema. Schedule an appointment today.