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NYM Launches Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common and debilitating disorder characterized by destruction of the lungs and inflammation of the airways. It is often—but not always—associated with smoking. COPD is the fourth most common cause of death in the United States and is quickly
becoming the third most common cause of death worldwide. Although
shortness of breath, wheezing, and cough are common manifestations of
this disorder, exercise intolerance is the most significant limiting
factor in an individual's daily life.
Pulmonary rehabilitation, a new program offered at New York Methodist
Hospital (NYM), is a specific treatment for COPD that addresses exercise
intolerance by improving muscle strength and stamina. The primary goal
of pulmonary rehabilitation is to improve the efficiency of the
musculoskeletal system so that the lungs are less stressed and can
function for prolonged periods of time—enabling the patient to walk,
exercise and perform regular activities.
Pulmonary rehabilitation has been shown to improve three important
quality of life aspects in individuals with COPD: 1) exercise capacity,
2) severity of dyspnea (shortness of breath), and 3) health-related
quality of life. Evidence also shows that rehabilitation reduces
frequency of hospitalization, cost of care, anxiety and depression, and
cognitive function.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is generally indicated for patients with
moderately severe disease. Those with less severe disease but
significant dyspnea out of proportion to their severity of disease would
also probably benefit from rehabilitation. Some people with very
severe disease may also be eligible. Rehabilitation is generally safe,
although screening for cardiovascular disease is necessary, due to the
increased risk of a cardiac event while exercising. Individuals who are
eligible for pulmonary rehabilitation must undergo an evaluation
process including cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in order to
determine their maximum exercise capacity so that an exercise regimen
can be determined Some testing to follow apatient's progress during
therapy is also necessary.
For more information on pulmonary rehabilitation, contact the Division
of Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine at New York Methodist Hospital,
(718) 780-5835.
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