Year of the Lung 2010
Pulmonary Rehabilitation is for You!
If you suffer from lung disease then pulmonary rehabilitation is the place for you! Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of exercise and education where the goal is getting the lung patient active and knowledgeable!
Who should enroll in a pulmonary rehabilitation program? Anyone with lung disease such as, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, Cystic Fibrosis, emphysema, chronic bronchitis and anyone considering lung transplantation. Many programs will see the patient first for an evaluation, to make sure you qualify. Medicare and many insurance companies cover pulmonary rehabilitation as a covered benefit.
Many lung patients feel they can no longer walk, exercise and do activities they once did…give pulmonary rehabilitation a chance. Pulmonary rehab programs allow patients to gradually get back into shape through monitored exercise sessions. These exercise sessions can include surface walking, treadmill walking, stationary bicycling, arm exercises, exercises with weights and exercise bands. Your lung condition is monitored during exercise by the pulmonary rehabilitation specialists, which often consist of respiratory therapists! Think of it as a specialized lung disease gym!
Programs also spend a great deal of time teaching their patients about their lung disease. It is important to know how to manage your disease, so education is key!
Pulmonary rehabilitation programs meet for 2–3 days per week for an average of 6–12 weeks. You will spend time exercising during each session. Progress is generally made every time you go to rehab! Education sessions will occur during your rehab program. Take along a family member, they need to learn too!
Most rehabilitation programs also have strong support groups. These groups help keep you linked with the friends you have made.
Many patients cannot believe the difference in themselves after the have attended pulmonary rehabilitation. Family and friends are amazed at the changes they see in their loved ones! Patients often state they have more energy, can do more activities and are enjoying life again.
Want to do pulmonary rehabilitation? Contact your physicians, as you need a referral to the program. Locate one at your nearest hospital.
Do rehab for you…you will be so happy that you did!
