How to get the most out of pulmonary rehabilitation

Coping with a diagnosis of lung disease is challenging. Unlike other conditions, there is no cure or way to reverse the damage. In many cases, the best way to address the symptoms is to enter a pulmonary rehabilitation program. These therapies and exercises are crucial for maintaining an independent, active lifestyle while coping with lung disease. Here are four ways to get the best results from pulmonary rehabilitation.

MAKE REHAB A PRIORITY

Committing to attending pulmonary rehabilitation is an important step. Simply signing up for the program does not improve lung function. Change begins with commitment to the program.

GET THOSE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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Learning how your lungs work can help you manage lung disease. When you grasp the concept of flare-ups and know how to avoid them and what to do to control them, you will feel more in control of life. Pulmonary rehab will teach you many helpful techniques like breathing control, which can improve lung function as well as your quality of life. When you know how to manage symptoms, build endurance through exercise and conserve energy, you can begin to develop a strategy for coping with lung disease.

MAKE A PLAN

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Being realistic about pulmonary rehabilitation is an important part of the process. Pulmonary rehabilitation is not a way to get rid of lung damage, but it is a way to build strength, manage symptoms and improve breathing. Set realistic goals that are long term. You’ll also want to be sure to carefully follow your therapist’s instructions with all your daily exercises, both respiratory and physical, as well as to change your diet to lose weight and maintain good health. Continue with the plan after completing pulmonary rehabilitation to maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.

GET SUPPORT

An important part of pulmonary rehabilitation is finding support. Instead of feeling alone in a struggle with lung disease, talk to others with similar conditions. People who have experienced the same breathing issues may be able to offer a suggestion of how they were able to cope. Support from others who have the same issues can be very valuable. However, if this group support is not enough, seek help from a psychologist. These professionals can help with feeling of anxiousness, depression or stress. Sometimes, the emotions are too much to handle alone. Don’t be afraid to seek help.

AN OPTION WORTH EXPLORING

Lung disease is challenging enough on its own, but when it is combined with another medical event like surgery, cardiac issues or a stroke, the struggle can be overwhelming. For many who are trying to cope with COPD, emphysema, lung cancer or other pulmonary issues, choosing to recover at Glenview Terrace is a wise decision. The pulmonary rehabilitation program at Glenview Terrace provides each patient with an individualized care program that may include respiratory therapy, physical and occupational therapy, breathing strategies and education to improve quality of life. The expert staff provides around-the-clock care that also includes managing needed medications and oxygen therapies. As part of a continuing commitment to serve all the needs of each guest, psychologists are available to help manage the many emotions connected to chronic illness. All of this top-notch care is provided in an elegant setting complete with concierge service. Instead of hoping for an effective recovery, make plans to experience the best care possible at Glenview Terrace.

At Glenview Terrace, the focus is always to safely and quickly get you back to your active life after surgery, a hospital stay or a medical event. Focusing on healthcare excellence and safety, Glenview Terrace provides the latest infection-control precautions. Glenview Terrace has been ranked among the top 1% of all Illinois post-hospital rehabilitation and nursing care centers by Newsweek — and has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval certification for post-hospital and post-surgical care. For additional information or to arrange a personalized virtual tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.