Pulmonary fibrosis is a serious lung disease that involves lung scarring. Lung tissue also becomes stiffened, making breathing difficult. Participating in a pulmonary physical rehabilitation program may improve your functioning. The American Lung Association states that it is important to stay active with pulmonary fibrosis. Talk to your doctor about exercising with this disease.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is beneficial for most people, but because of the breathing challenges in those with pulmonary fibrosis, it can be difficult. Exercise can lessen your need for health care treatments and decrease your symptoms of breathlessness. Talk to your doctor about using oxygen while exercising. The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care states that using supplemental oxygen during exercise can improve your performance and increase the levels of oxygen in your blood.
Considerations With Exercise
The Ohio State University Medical Center offers these factors to consider before starting to exercise: your current physical condition and how active you were in the past. A rehabilitation staff member can help you determine how you should begin to exercise.
Types of Exercise
Aerobic exercise is best for the lungs, heart and circulatory system. Cycling, swimming and walking are recommended exercises to strengthen the cardiovascular system. Talk to your doctor or rehabilitative staff worker about whether isometric or isotonic exercises are appropriate for you. These types of exercise involve toning and strengthening of muscles, as well as contracting and extending them in controlled movements.
Exercise Recommendations
When you begin to exercise, do short periods at more frequent intervals. If you are weak, rehabilitation staff may advise you to begin to exercise for only a few minutes at a time. The Ohio State Medical Center recommends that you work toward a goal of exercising once a day four to five times per week. Start out with exercising for five to 15 minutes at a time. Rest between exercise periods. Increase the duration of your exercise by a few minutes each time. Your goal is 20 to 40 minutes of continuous exercise.
How Hard Should You Work Out?
Gradually increase your breathing and heart rates as you exercise. While exercising, you should not feel out of breath and should be able to carry on a conversation. When you begin, exercise at a low level of intensity and only gradually increase your effort. On a stationary bicycle, start to pedal at a low level. After a few minutes, increase your intensity. If you walk, start slowly and build to a comfortable speed, suggests the Ohio University Medical Center.
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