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What Is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that causes breathing difficulty due to airway inflammation and obstruction. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is common in India due to smoking, air pollution, and occupational dust exposure. While not curable, COPD can be effectively managed with medication and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation for COPD
- Breathing exercises: Diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing techniques improve oxygen exchange and reduce breathlessness.
- Airway clearance: Techniques such as active cycle of breathing, postural drainage, and huffing help clear excess mucus from the airways.
- Graded exercise training: Carefully progressed aerobic and resistance exercises improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce the sensation of breathlessness during daily activities.
- Energy conservation: Learning to pace activities and use energy-efficient techniques for daily tasks like bathing, cooking, and climbing stairs.
- Education: Understanding your condition, recognising exacerbation signs, and knowing when to seek medical attention.
Home-Based COPD Rehabilitation
COPD patients often find it difficult to travel due to breathlessness and fatigue. Home-based pulmonary rehabilitation removes this barrier and allows therapy in a comfortable, low-anxiety environment. Your PhysioWay cardiopulmonary therapist monitors oxygen saturation during exercises, adjusts intensity based on your response, and coordinates with your pulmonologist for comprehensive care.