Introduction
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program designed for people who have chronic lung disease; the primary goal for the person enrolled is to achieve and maintain the maximum level of independence and functioning. Although most pulmonary rehabilitation programs focus on the needs of people who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, people with other types of lung disease may benefit as well. All age groups can benefit, including people older than 70.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are effective for people who have severe shortness of breath, which impairs quality of life; an inability to exercise, which may affect daily activities; and multiple hospitalizations or emergency room visits because of lung disease. A successful rehabilitation program may significantly improve the person's quality of life by reducing shortness of breath, increasing exercise tolerance, promoting a sense of well-being, and, to a lesser extent, decreasing the number of hospitalizations. However, these programs do not significantly improve survival.
These programs are usually conducted in an outpatient setting or in the person's home. Inpatient services often take place in special rehabilitation centers. Inpatient services are used mainly for people who are recovering from hospitalization, often because of a severe respiratory problem. These people are often not stable enough to go home but no longer require care in an intensive care unit. The most successful rehabilitation programs are those in which services are provided by a variety of health care professionals (called a pulmonary rehabilitation team) to coordinate complex medical services. For example, a respiratory or physical therapist, a nurse, a doctor, a psychologist or social worker, and a dietitian are often needed. Most people are enrolled in these programs for about 8 to 12 weeks.
Supportive lung therapy, which includes oxygen therapy and chest physical therapy, can be used in conjunction with pulmonary rehabilitation. Supportive therapy can also be used for people not enrolled in these programs but who have chronic lung disorders (such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis) or acute lung conditions (such as pneumonia).
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