Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) consists of individualized treatment programs designed to improve the health of and enhance quality of life for patients with chronic respiratory problems. Because breathing difficulties almost always result in anxiety, PR focuses on providing both physical and psychological relief. By combining medical therapy with several other techniques, pulmonary rehabilitation has proven effective in treating patients with all types of respiratory ailments. It is also an essential part of treatment, both before and after surgery, for patients undergoing lung operations.
Conditions Treated by Pulmonary Rehabilitation
A great many breathing problems, including the following, can be treated with pulmonary rehabilitation:
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema and other forms of COPD
- Sarcoidosis
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Interstitial lung disease
Pulmonary rehabilitation is used in conjunction with medical therapies such as medications, nebulizers, oxygen therapy, proton therapy and, experimentally, stem cell therapy.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Methods
There are several methods used in pulmonary rehabilitation. They are administered at hospitals and clinics, or in the patient's home. A variety of specialists, such as respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists, psychologists and social workers, are usually involved. Treatment includes many or all of the following:
- Exercise training
- Nutritional counseling
- Education on management of the disease
- Energy-conserving techniques
- Breathing strategies
- Psychological counseling and group support
Prior to treatment, the patient's particular needs are assessed using various tests, including lung-function and other breathing tests, and stress tests. An evaluation of the patient's nutrition, exercise, lifestyle habits and emotional well-being is also made.