Dyspnea, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Abstract In addition to the physiological damage to the lungs inherent in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), patients are often symptomatic because of deconditioning and the anxiety and panic inherent to living with chronic dyspnea. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an evidence-based comprehensive intervention that has been shown to improve quality of life and symptoms for patients with chronic lung disease. Even patients with severe lung disease can tolerate exercise training that begins at a very low intensity with gradual progression of intensity and duration over time. In addition, pulmonary rehabilitation provides the reassurance of skilled clinicians who monitor patients during exercise and the encouragement of other participants who model vicarious success. The synergy of physiological conditioning, education, and psychosocial support available through pulmonary rehabilitation can contribute to significant improvements in quality of life and symptom status for patients with COPD.