Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease can include a variety of pulmonary conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Asthma attacks occur when smooth bronchial muscle around the small airways in the lungs constricts. Symptoms include shortness of breath, episodes of difficult breathing and wheezing. Allergic reactions to foreign substances can cause asthmatic symptoms.
Exercise-induced asthma can be triggered when exercising in a cold, dry climate. As air enters the lungs, it is humidified and heated to body temperature. During exercise, heating and humidifying a large volume of air results in a heat and water loss from airways. As airways become cooler and drier, chemicals are released to narrow the airways. This obstruction causes an out-of-breath feeling that may last for up to an hour after exercising. Low- to moderate-exercise intensity levels in a controlled environment help decrease the frequent use of and/or dependence on medication.
Exercise benefits:
- Boosts energy to carry out activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Increases blood circulation and helps the heart send oxygen to the body.
- Strengthens the cardiovascular and respiratory muscles which makes it easier to breathe.
Exercise guidelines:
- The goal for individuals with COPD is to gradually improve stamina by building up aerobic activity. Gradually increase exercise duration to improve pulmonary function.
- Resistance training is essential to maintain and build strength as individuals with COPD can lose muscle mass due to a lack of activity.
- If an asthmatic participant is recovering from an attack or an infection, exercise should be avoided.
- Asthmatics should avoid exercise if symptoms are poorly controlled.
- Participants with asthma should always have a rescue inhaler or medication within reach.
SilverSneakers class recommendations:
- SilverSneakers Classic and Circuit (if tolerated) will aid in increasing muscle strength and stamina. Interval training can be beneficial for individuals with COPD.
- SilverSneakers Yoga and EnerChi will help participants learn diaphragmatic breathing rather than relying on the upper chest and shoulder muscles for respiration.
Instructor tips for participants with pulmonary diseases:
- Physical limitations caused by asthma can vary drastically from one participant to another. Encourage class participants to monitor their perceived exertion and work within their individual limits.
- Suggest participants bring inhalers or oxygen to class if needed.
- Encourage participants to seek a physician’s guidance and ask:
- How soon before exercise should I take bronchodilator medications?
- How long do the protected effects last?
- Is it appropriate to take my medication during class?
- Urge participants to arrive early and begin a longer, progressive warm-up.
- Create a safe environment with clean air and comfortable temperatures.
- Teach participants to exhale with a “steady blow” rather than to exhale forcefully. Participants should practice a 2:1 breathing pattern = exhaling twice as long as inhaling.
- Individuals with COPD may have supplemental oxygen or a walker to assist with walking farther.