|
Shape Up To Breathe Better |
|
Getting in shape today can mean breathing easier tomorrow.
It's Not Enough To Get In Shape ... YOU MUST STAY IN SHAPE
Being in good physical condition is important when you have COPD because the more efficiently your muscles work. the less oxygen they require to accomplish a task. You can do your part by exercising to condition your body and keep it in the best shape possible.
If you're worried that exercise will hurt your lungs, don't be. Experiencing shortness of breath during exercise only indicates that your body needs more oxygen at that moment, not that the lungs have been further damaged. Just concentrate on exhaling through pursed lips to slow down your breathing and restore the oxygen your system needs.
Don't Overdo It!
Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine. You should also be able to recognize the signs and symptoms that could mean you are overexerting and need to stop and rest. These are: - weakness
- excessive sweating
- chest pain or pain of any kind
- dizziness
- increased shortness of breath that does not return to normal within a few minutes.
Walking...
is one of the best exercises you can do because as you walk you condition your entire body, including your heart. It's also a year-round body conditioner since you can use shopping malls for walking when the weather is too hot or too cold.
When walking. be sure to set a reasonable goal for yourself. One rule of thumb is to walk only as far as you can go without becoming overly short of breath and then try to increase this distance a little every day.
Use slow, deliberate movements as you walk, taking relatively long steps and letting your arms swing freely at your sides. Don't forget to use your pursed-lip breathing as you walk, exhaling twice as long as you inhale. If you need oxygen, use your prescribed flow rate during this or any other exercise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
There is no doubt that taking the initiative to get in shape and stay in shape is important especially if you have a chronic respiratory disease. But what about the men and women who need some additional help in doing this?
If you're one of these individuals, you may be able to get the extra help you need through a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Some hospitals and home health care agencies have started "pulmonary rehab" programs to help you maximize your physical strength and tolerance to exercise in an effort to improve your ability to carry out daily activities.
Not only do most pulmonary rehab programs use physical reconditioning techniques to help you function at your best, but they also try to enhance emotional well-being. Most programs try to provide you with enough information, education, and understanding to manage your condition effectively on a day-to-day basis and to handle symptoms as they occur. They also encourage active participation for you and your family.
How successful are these pulmonary rehabilitation programs? Well, studies show that COPD rehabilitation programs can reduce the frequency of re-hospitalization, reduce your overall cost of care, and improve the quality of your life.
If you are interested in finding out about a pulmonary rehabilitation program in your area, ask your doctor or contact your local hospitals, home health care agencies, or the American Respiratory Alliance.
|
