Pulmonary Rehabilitation - Everything About It!

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a program of exercise and education to increase awareness among patients about chronic lung conditions. Chronic lung conditions that may necessitate such programs are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis etc.

The aim of such a program is to help patients rebuild strength and lead a more vigorous life. For pregnant women, pulmonary problems can endanger both the mother and the child. This is why, in the case of pregnant women suffering from chronic pulmonary problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis etc., Pulmonary Rehabilitation is necessary. This can improve their lung function and help them carry their pregnancy better.

What Entails Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Relevant classes are held in groups. Patients get the chance to meet others suffering from similar lung conditions. They can discuss among themselves and get emotional support. The skills learned and knowledge acquired in such settings can help in managing chronic lung diseases. Patients may enhance their level of fitness. They can learn to exercise their lungs and keep their muscles more active. This may ensure better fostering for the fetus.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Team and Venue

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is administered by a team consisting of nurses, doctors, physical therapists, exercise specialists, respiratory therapists, and dietitians. These health professionals can together customize rehab programs that meet individual needs. So pregnant patients are offered rehabilitation differently compared to other patients.

It is an outpatient procedure and may be conducted in a hospital setting or a clinic. One can also avail it at home, if her condition so necessitates it.

For Whom Is It Ideal

Doctors recommend Pulmonary Rehabilitation for patients who suffer from lung conditions that precipitate frequent shortness of breath episodes. These patients may not be able to perform regular activities efficiently despite taking medicines. Although most patients in such rehab programs suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, other chronic lung conditions that may limit breathing and activity may also precipitate the need for such programs.

Tests Carried Out During the Program

One of the basic tests carried out during the rehabilitation program is the six-minute walk test. This test measures the percentage of oxygen in the blood. The therapist assists patients to undergo this test during the rehabilitation program. It shows how much oxygen one may need during different activities or exercises. The therapist then guides individuals through different exercises and use of oxygen during those exercises.

Rehab at Home

The program can be carried out at home, too. However, this is possible only after going through the classes and learning tips about exercising. Since it is an educational program for people with lung disease, it augurs well to take peer support and therapy support in a hospital setting initially and also at times. In between, routine activities can be conducted at home. However, pregnant women need to keep their gynecologists in the loop about various exercises advised by the therapists.

Breathlessness is common during pregnancy. This is why following an exercise regime is one of the more apt ways for pregnant women to control pulmonary or respiratory complications. This will also help for those women who are suffering from any pulmonary disease to lower the chance of getting affected by it. These exercises will calm the nervous system and lower the stress level of the mind.