Pulmonary Rehab

What is pulmonary rehab?

Pulmonary rehabilitation, aka pulmonary rehab, is a medically supervised program of education and exercise designed to improve breathing function. Just as physical rehab helps to strengthen and support your musculoskeletal system, pulmonary rehab works to enhance and strengthen your breathing. 

While pulmonary rehab doesn’t cure breathing disorders, it can help you breathe easier and feel better each and every day. That's why it is commonly part of a comprehensive treatment plan for various breathing problems. 

Who can benefit from a course of pulmonary rehab?

Many people try pulmonary rehab as part of their treatment program. Some examples of conditions that can improve with medically supervised pulmonary rehabilitation include:

• Lung cancer
• Cystic fibrosis
• Snoring
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Interstitial lung disease
• Congenital disorders
• Asthma
• Pulmonary hypertension

If you’re experiencing breathing problems, begin by working with a skilled pulmonary specialist at Respacare to determine the source of the issue. Ask if a course of pulmonary rehab can help strengthen your breathing function. 

Pulmonary rehab uses a customized approach to help you improve your breathing. Just as no two people share the exact same health needs, your pulmonary rehab program is unique. You play an active part in the process by providing feedback on how your body responds and your symptoms change as you move through the rehab process. 

What happens during pulmonary rehab sessions?

Pulmonary rehab has two primary components: education and exercise. During the educational portion of your visits, you learn techniques for managing your symptoms and controlling shortness of breath. 

If your provider recommends home medical equipment, you learn how to use those devices properly. You also discuss how to manage your medications to get the very best benefits from drug therapy. 

The exercise portion of pulmonary rehab focuses on how to exercise properly without pushing your body too hard. At the beginning of the process, your provider assesses your current level of health and strength. That allows them to shape an exercise program that takes advantage of your strengths and improves areas of weakness. 

Pulmonary rehab is often done in combination with other breathing treatments like drug therapy, CPAP therapy, guidance for nutrition and weight loss, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. You also learn how support groups, counseling, and other mental and emotional support services can enhance your overall treatment plan. 

Get started today by booking a visit at Respacare online or by phone.