What is COPD?
COPD is an abbreviation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, better known as COPD. The disease is caused by a chronic lung disease, affecting a narrowing of the airways while simultaneously destroying the lung tissue. COPD develops slowly, therefore, the disease is first discovered when the patient starts experiencing shortness of breath, coughing, phlegm, and frequent infections.
Why is physical exercise beneficial if the patient has COPD?
COPD patients are often less physical active than patients without COPD. This is often caused by the patients having trouble breathing, which can make physical exercise feel insurmountable. Over time, lack of exercise will cause the patient to lose muscle mass and fitness. This increases the risk of exasperating COPD, since breathing troubles can be worsened by the lack of exercise. There is not a simple cure for COPD. Therefore, physical exercise is a cornerstone in COPD treatment. The reason for this is that exercise can alleviate shortness of breath, increase endurance by strengthening musculature, and improve fitness. But which form of physical exercise is the most optimal for patients suffering from COPD?
Scientists are still trying to answer this question. The optimal form of exercise for COPD patients has not be found yet. However, studies have proved that COPD patients, whom participate in a rehabilitation program, experience an improvement. In general, COPD patients are capable of all forms of exercise, if they pay attention to their own body’s signals and do not overextend themselves. However, a Danish study has proved that COPD patients should be cautious of participating in high intensity exercise, since this could make the condition worse; and in the worst cases, even deadly.
