Breathing troubles and respiratory illnesses are incredibly common in America and throughout the world. Those with respiratory illnesses and trouble breathing often experience discomfort while inhaling or exhaling and endure difficulties with activities of daily living. Fortunately, pulmonary rehabilitation can offer hope to those who struggle with their lung health while presenting minimal side effects.
Lung Health Services provides an overview of pulmonary rehabilitation for our patients and their families to be informed and make the best health decisions they can for their health.
What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?
It is the process of receiving education and performing exercises with a respiratory professional that can help restore your lung health and increase your lungs’ capacity. Pulmonary rehabilitation can be used for a wide variety of lung issues and diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), asthma, hypertension, and cystic fibrosis.
Your doctor or lung specialist may recommend it, and many hospitals and small clinics offer these services. Lung Health Services, and Dr. Nina Maouelainin offers many pulmonary rehabilitation options for patients.
What Techniques Exist?
Pulmonary rehabilitation can consist of a nearly unlimited combination of various exercises and techniques. Your lung specialist can determine which techniques are best for you, and some programs may even include nutrition counseling and mental healthcare.
Some techniques you can try at home include the following:
- Breathing through pursed lips
- Breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth (yoga breathing)
- Breathing in for a count of 2 and out for a count of 4
When starting these exercises, be sure to start slow. Discontinue these exercises if you feel tingling or burning in your chest, dizziness, or nausea.
How Does It Help Patients?
Aside from potentially improving patients’ lung health and increasing their capacity for breathing, pulmonary rehabilitation can greatly enhance a person’s quality of life. Performing certain lung exercises can reduce some patients’ need for supplemental oxygen, allowing them more freedom and flexibility throughout their daily lives. Additionally, utilizing regular pulmonary rehabilitation techniques can improve energy levels and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression that are related to breathing troubles or a lack of physical movement.
Respiratory illnesses can be annoying and life-altering, but your team at Lung Health Services, in conjunction with your primary care physician, can create a comprehensive plan that could help you breathe better in no time. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Nina today, by contacting Lung Health Services at (267) 500-5027.