Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a structured treatment program tailored for individuals with long-term lung conditions, especially those who experience breathlessness. Here’s a summary of its key elements:
- Exercise classes: These are specifically designed to improve physical fitness and lung function for people with chronic lung conditions.
- Education: Information is provided on how to take care of your body and lungs, which helps participants understand their condition better.
- Management advice: Guidance is offered on how to manage the lung condition day-to-day.
- Breathlessness management techniques: Strategies are taught to help cope with breathlessness, a common symptom in many lung conditions.
Who should go to PR?
PR is aimed at people with a lung condition whose ability to be active is affected by breathing difficulties. It can benefit people with long-term lung conditions, including:
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- bronchiectasis
- pulmonary fibrosis
- severe asthma
- other respiratory conditions
PR may not be suitable for you if:
- you’re too breathless to leave the house
- pain limits your walking
- you have uncontrolled heart problems
- you’ve had a recent heart attack.
You can do PR if you use oxygen
For individuals who require oxygen therapy to manage their lung condition, portable oxygen cylinders may be necessary during pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) classes.
If your oxygen levels drop during exercise, portable oxygen can help ensure you receive adequate oxygen while staying active. This can make it easier for you to participate in the exercises and maintain activity for longer periods, improving the overall effectiveness of the PR program.
Using portable oxygen during PR can support better oxygen delivery to your muscles, reduce breathlessness, and enhance your endurance, helping you get the most out of the rehabilitation sessions. Your healthcare team will assess your oxygen needs and determine if portable oxygen is appropriate for you during exercise.
How do you get PR?
Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a valuable treatment option for individuals with long-term lung conditions, and everyone who needs it should be referred. Here are the key steps to accessing PR:
- Referral: You can be referred for PR by your GP, practice nurse, or respiratory team. It’s important to ask if PR is suitable for your condition and inquire about local programs.
- Waiting lists: Some PR programs may have waiting lists, so it’s a good idea to speak to your GP as early as possible to avoid delays in starting the program.
- Eligibility: If you’re told that you’re not eligible for PR, there are alternative ways to stay active. Regular physical activity, tailored to your abilities, can still help manage your lung condition and improve your overall well-being.
Engaging in PR or other physical activities can improve your lung function, reduce breathlessness, and enhance your quality of life. If you believe PR could benefit you, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for more information.
How will PR help you?
Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) offers numerous benefits for individuals with long-term lung conditions. Completing a course can:
- Improve muscle strength, enabling your body to use oxygen more efficiently and helping reduce breathlessness.
- Help you cope better with breathlessness, providing techniques to manage and reduce discomfort.
- Boost your fitness, giving you more confidence to carry out everyday tasks with ease.
- Enhance mental wellbeing, offering emotional support through improved physical health and group interaction.
- Reduce tiredness, increasing your energy levels and stamina.
- Lower the risk of hospital admissions due to chest infections or exacerbations.
- Improve understanding and management of your condition, empowering you to take control of your health.
Completing PR teaches you how to exercise safely at a level suited to your needs, builds your confidence, and provides opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges.
What happens on a PR course?
A Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) course typically begins with an assessment to gauge your health and physical capabilities. Your PR team will ask questions to understand your individual needs and goals, ensuring you get the most out of the program.
PR Sessions Overview:
- Exercise: About half of each session is dedicated to exercise. The activities are tailored to your abilities, ensuring that you’re safely challenged. While you may get out of breath (a normal part of the therapy), you’ll always have support and won’t be asked to overexert yourself. Common exercises include bicep curls and thigh stretches for both upper and lower body strength, as well as stretching to improve flexibility.
- Education and Techniques: The other half of the session focuses on learning important skills and strategies, such as:
- The importance of staying active when living with a lung condition
- Ways to maintain a positive attitude about physical activity
- Breathing techniques for both physical activity and managing anxiety
- Tips for managing low mood or motivation
- Proper use of inhalers and medications
- Eating well, especially when breathless
- Smoking cessation (if applicable)
- Managing flare-ups and chest infections
Commitment to the Course:
Attending every session of PR is highly encouraged, as consistent participation will allow you to gain the most benefit from the program. The more involved you are, the better the improvements in your fitness, breathlessness, and overall management of your lung condition.
What happens after PR?
Continuing to stay active after completing your Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) course is essential for maintaining the progress you’ve made. Here are some key points to consider:
Keeping Active Post-PR:
- Utilize Techniques Learned: You can continue using the breathing techniques and exercises you learned during your PR sessions to manage your lung condition and improve your fitness.
- Follow-Up Exercise Programmes: Your PR team may offer a follow-up exercise programme. Don’t hesitate to ask them if this option is available to help you maintain your activity levels.
- Alternative Ways to Stay Active: If there’s no follow-up programme, or if you prefer not to attend a gym, you can still keep active at home. Consider using resources like:
- Keep Active Videos: These can guide you through various exercises tailored for your needs.
- Keep Active Handbook: This resource provides exercises and tips for staying active safely at home.
Importance of Staying Active:
Maintaining an active lifestyle will help you sustain the improvements you’ve achieved during PR, enhance your overall health, and reduce the risk of complications related to your lung condition. Regular activity can also boost your mood, energy levels, and confidence in managing daily tasks