Discussions
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🫁 Have you ever asked about pulmonary rehab?
š« Have you ever asked about pulmonary rehab?
Pulmonary rehab may not be something you've heard much about with bronchiectasis or NTM. In fact, your doctor may have never even mentioned it. But if you're finding it harder to stay active, getting more short of breath doing everyday things, or feeling like you've lost some strength or stamina, it may be worth asking about.
And don't let the word ārehabā scare you off.
Pulmonary rehab isn't about becoming an athlete or seeing how long you can last on a treadmill. It's a program designed to meet you where you are and help you learn how to safely do more of what you're able to do.
Exercise is part of it, but there's much more. You may learn about breathing techniques, airway clearance, medications, oxygen, nutrition, ways to conserve your energy, and how to better manage day-to-day life with a lung condition.
Sometimes, one of the biggest benefits is simply gaining a little more confidence in what your body can do.
So if pulmonary rehab has never come up in conversation with your healthcare team, there's nothing wrong with being the one to bring it up:
āDo you think pulmonary rehab could help me?ā
That one question could open the door to something you didn't know was available.
Have you been through pulmonary rehab? We'd love to hear about your experience. What helped you the most? And if you've never tried it, is it something you'd consider asking your healthcare team about?
The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association has a great resource that explains pulmonary rehab, what happens during the program, and how it may help:
https://www.bronchandntm.org/For-Patients/Learn-More/Exacerbations-and-Treatment/Pulmonary-Rehab
Replies
I love pulmonary rehabilitation. I worked as a respiratory therapist for three years before stepping into a pulmonary rehabilitation clinic. After three months of training, I saw the difference it could make in patientsā lives, and I was forever changed.
Now, I talk about pulmonary rehabilitation with anyone who will listen. It is amazing to see how working with your body, safely building endurance, and learning breathing techniques can improve a personās outlook and confidence.
Iām interested in trying a virtual pulmonary rehab program. Does anyone have experience with or a recommendation for a program?
Cjack
It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with Bronchiectasis and NTM, please consult a physician before making changes to your own Bronchiectasis and NTM management plan.
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