COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While primarily caused by smoking, asthma, air pollution, genetics, secondary smoke and respiratory infections may also result in COPD. If you're diagnosed with COPD, an exercise program will help you manage the disease.
What is COPD?
COPD refers to a group of diseases that damage airways and air sacs in the lungs, resulting in diminished airflow and difficulty breathing. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two of the most common types of COPD. The damage can't be reversed, so treatment includes medications and lifestyle changes designed to control symptoms and minimize further damage, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Importance of Exercise
Exercise is an important part of pulmonary rehabilitation because it improves the overall strength and endurance of respiratory muscles. According to YourLungHealth.org, during exercise, muscles learn to use oxygen more efficiently and the result is that the lungs don't have to work so hard. Exercise also boosts mental health, helps maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure, and improves circulation, which all help your breathing.
Begin an Exercise Routine
People with COPD should practice two types of exercise: regular aerobic exercise for general strength and conditioning, and exercises to help control and manage breathing. Always talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. The Cleveland Clinic recommends asking how much exercise you can do each day, how many days a week to exercise, which types of exercise you should do and which types of exercise to avoid. Start slow and rest if you get short of breath, have chest pain, feel dizzy or sick to your stomach. If you still feel bad after resting, call your doctor or go to the emergency room.
Exercises to Control Breathing
According to COPD International, pursed lip and diaphragmatic breathing improve airflow and decrease shortness of breath. It recommends exercises that reinforce these techniques so you're prepared to use them when it becomes difficult to breathe. Pursed lip exercises are done by breathing in through your nose, pursing your lips as though you're going to whistle, and then exhaling slowing through your mouth. It should take you 2-4 times longer to exhale than it took to inhale. Separating the chest from the abdomen, the diaphragm muscle is essential for breathing. Learning to properly use and strengthen this muscle can be accomplished by following this exercise: Lay down, put one hand on your abdomen and the other on your chest, and inhale through your nose while concentrating on making your stomach move while keeping your chest still. Then exhale through pursed lips, letting your stomach fall inward while continuing to keep the upper chest as still as possible.
Other COPD Exercises
Your physician may also recommend controlled coughing exercises to remove mucus and relaxation techniques to relieve the anxiety frequently caused by breathing difficulties.
