Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and related conditions rank as the fifth leading cause of death and the second leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. Problems from the symptoms of these diseases are even more crippling. Often, the breathlessness, increased coughing and wheezing caused by chronic airflow limitation result in anxiety, fear and fatigue.
For years, the standard care for people with COPD was rest and avoidance of physical stress. There is now substantial evidence that, with proper conditioning, people with COPD can perform at the same exercise level with decreased heart rates, respiratory rates and carbon dioxide production. This is the goal of PACER's Pulmonary Fitness Program. Though the disease process cannot be reversed, with an appropriate exercise prescription, the tasks of daily living will become less burdensome for people living with COPD.
Click here to learn more about COPD from the INTEGRIS Health Library.