Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease that hardens and scars the lungs. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this disease usually effects those between the ages of 50 and 70. However, anyone can develop the disease and the results are the same regardless of the age. This condition will make breathing difficult and cumbersome. If you have pulmonary fibrosis, exertion can increase the breathing difficulty. This can make exercising with pulmonary fibrosis difficult, and care should be taken to ensure safe practices.
Difficulties of Exercise
Exercise increases the workload on your lungs. An increased workload means that your lungs are going to use up more oxygen and work harder. For those with pulmonary fibrosis, this make you short of breath and increases the difficulty in breathing. This may make you want to quit exercising, but quitting will have more negative effects then pushing forward and establishing an exercise routine.
Importance of Exercise
If you have pulmonary fibrosis, you need to exercise. Regardless of how you feel, exercise can help your lungs in several ways. Exercise helps lower stress and keep your lungs functioning. The more you exercise, you will train your lungs to work with more exertion. This will benefit you during regular activities that do not require much challenge. Exercise will also make your lungs more resourceful and they will use less oxygen during activity.
Suggested Exercise
Specific exercises are more beneficial for those with pulmonary fibrosis. Breathing exercises will help oxygenate your lungs and teach you how to breath more proficiently. Stretching helps loosen muscles and increases your circulation. Strengthening exercises influence your breathing and help your body to be more productive. Aerobic exercises will build endurance and allow you to exercise and perform regular functions for longer periods of time.
Considerations
Before starting an exercise routine, you should discuss your difficulties and unique situation with a doctor. This will allow you to tailor the exercises specific for you. Being short of breath is expected, but your doctor can evaluate you and decide how much is acceptable and at what point you need to quit exercising. If you feel sudden pain, quit immediately and discuss with a physician.
