7 Reasons Why Pulmonary Rehabilitation Is Important

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) should be part of the treatment plan for any chronic lung disease, including cystic fibrosis. It’s a combination of exercise, breathing techniques, diet and education that aims to help give patients a better quality of life and be able to have more control of their symptoms.

We’ve compiled a list of reasons why pulmonary rehabilitation is important for cystic fibrosis patients based on information from the British Lung Foundation and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

Disease education
Pulmonary rehabilitation will include education about the specifics of your lung disease. It will give you the opportunity to find out about the latest treatment methods, therapies, and medications relevant to cystic fibrosis. It will also help you figure out how to take your medications and what to do if you’re unwell.

Diet advice
Pulmonary rehabilitation includes diet advice that’s specific to the needs of a cystic fibrosis patient, which may differ significantly to the advice that’s given to someone who has other health problems.

MORE: Learn more about cystic fibrosis and nutrition

Exercise
A pulmonary rehabilitation program includes physical exercise that aims to improve muscle strength and overall health. Exercise is now seen as an important part of treatment for cystic fibrosis and PR will take you through a regimen that is tailored to your physical capabilities.

Breathing strategies
Pulmonary rehabilitation will teach you about different breathing strategies and exercises you can do to help when your breathing becomes difficult.

MORE: Researchers looking into whether Tai Chi improves breathing for people with cystic fibrosis

Help with fatigue
As your exercise regimen helps you get stronger, you should begin to feel less tired and your sleep quality should improve.

Improves quality of life
Pulmonary rehabilitation is designed to help you get stronger over time, so you should find that you can walk longer distances and regain some of your independence.

MORE: Learn more about cystic fibrosis and emotional wellness

Offer support and friendship
Pulmonary rehabilitation sessions are often group sessions so this gives you the opportunity to meet people who are in the same position as you. Not only will the sessions be social, but you’ll be able to share experiences and support each other.

MORE: Six remarkable cystic fibrosis organizations you can bring awareness to

Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.