PULMONARY REHAB HELPS TO BETTER LIVES OF THOSE WITH COPD AND OTHER LUNG DISEASES

The most commonly treated lung condition in Southeastern Indiana is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  Patients with COPD experience difficulty when breathing, may have low oxygen levels and may also have a chronic cough.  It is defined by diminished inspiratory and expiratory (inhaling and exhaling) capacity of the lungs.

Chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma and bronchiectasis are included in the definition of COPD.  Symptoms may be aggravated by smoking, air pollution or other factors.  COPD is diagnosed through a physical examination and confirmed with specific tests.  A pulmonary function test (also known as spirometry) is one painless way to measure how well the lungs are working.

The National Institutes of Health estimate that 12 million individuals have been diagnosed with COPD in the United States and predict that another 12 million are at risk in this country.  Each year, DCH’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department is seeing an increased number of patients with lung disease, especially COPD.

Dearborn County Hospital Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists custom design an educational and exercise program to meet each patient’s specific goals and needs.  Aspects of the program include guided exercise to increase strength and endurance and to improve oxygen levels, in addition to special breathing techniques to reduce shortness of breath and coughing.  Rehabilitation is also designed to prevent recurrences of lung infections.  Even those who have difficulty performing ordinary tasks can participate in monitored sessions designed around the individual’s abilities, needs and interests. 

“Pulmonologist Dr. Radu Zidarescu is the Medical Director of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Dearborn County Hospital,” said Dianne Williams, R.R.T., DCH Pulmonary Rehabilitation Coordinator and Respiratory Therapist.  “The program addresses the numerous challenges facing individuals with respiratory problems.  Some of these obstacles include shortness of breath, decreased strength and endurance, reduced energy levels, frequent respiratory infections and even depression.  Sometimes just going through your daily routine can take all of your strength and energy.

“The good news is that pulmonary rehabilitation is a powerful treatment option.  Many patients cannot believe the improvement in the way they feel after they have attended pulmonary rehab,” added Mrs. Williams.  “Family and friends are amazed at the changes they see in their loved ones.  Patients often state they have more energy, can take part in more activities and enjoy life again.”

A former participant in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Dearborn County Hospital is Linda Bond of Patriot.  Mrs. Bond, who was enrolled from October 2008 to February 2009, has since returned to her active lifestyle.  A retired accountant, Mrs. Bond, who has COPD and emphysema, suffered respiratory arrest in July 2008 and then spent 33 days in the hospital.  Some of her symptoms were the result of smoking, a 40 year habit she has since quit.

Mrs. Bond’s Pulmonologist, Dr. Zidarescu, prescribed pulmonary rehabilitation for her following her discharge from the hospital.  In rehab, Mrs. Bond learned special breathing exercises, took part in guided aerobic and strength training and received nutrition counseling.  Eventually, she purchased her own treadmill to walk on at home.  Since then, she has progressed to the point where she requires supplemental oxygen only at night.

“Pulmonary rehabilitation has made a significant difference in the lives of many COPD patients,” Dr. Zidarescu stated.  “Its combination of education and exercise helps patients not only physically but also provides them with the tools to regain control of their lives.”

“Before I started rehab, I never dreamed I would be functioning again at this level.  I just didn’t have any energy,” Mrs. Bond admitted.  “When I first started rehab, I didn’t even think I could use any of the pulmonary rehabilitation equipment.  Now, two years later, I walk on my treadmill several times a week.”

In addition, Mrs. Bond gardens, is on the advisory board of LifeTime Resources, and even assists with accounting at her former business.

Mrs. Bond has thanked her Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist many times for working with her.  “Mrs. Williams does a great job,” she explained.  “She kind of ‘pushes’ her patients.  That’s what you need to keep going.  It’s like Mrs. Williams tells all her patients: ‘You’ve Got to Move…To Improve.’  She’s also very good about letting me call her if I need advice.” 

Another DCH Pulmonary Rehabilitation patient who considers his recovery remarkable is Paul Yauger, a retired cab driver and Marine Corps veteran from Aurora.  Last year, his COPD and emphysema had worsened to the point that he was having more trouble breathing.  Mr. Yauger also has diabetes, has had heart surgery and requires oxygen 24 hours a day.

“Before pulmonary rehab, I couldn’t even do laundry without getting out of breath.  I’d have to sit down,” Mr. Yauger recalled.  “I had smoked for 43 years before I quit two years ago.”

Mr. Yauger’s Pulmonologist at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Cincinnati, Dr. William Eschenbacher, recommended that Mr. Yauger begin pulmonary rehabilitation.  Mr. Yauger followed his physician’s advice and enrolled in the DCH Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program for three months.  His primary goal when he enrolled was to be able to attend events with his wife Pam, their seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

“As a result of pulmonary rehab, my breathing has greatly improved,” Mr. Yauger elaborated.  “I was able to start walking for exercise again.  Now, as part of my recovery, I exercise at home for 30 minutes each day.  My wife and I also visit the Lawrenceburg Community Center three times a week to work out.  Plus, I get more exercise by keeping active with my grandchildren.  I’ve also returned to playing golf.  I’ve been to the links eight times this year.  Not only has rehab helped me tremendously in improving my health, I now know a lot more about my illness, including what caused it and how to keep it from getting worse.”

Prior to their physicians’ recommending the program, neither Mrs. Bond nor Mr. Yauger were familiar with pulmonary rehabilitation.  Now both are great proponents of the program’s benefits.  Other individuals who may benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation include those diagnosed with asthma, chronic bronchitis, sarcoidosis or interstitial pulmonary fibrosis.

Individuals taking part in the DCH Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program usually attend two sessions per week for approximately 12 to 16 weeks.  A physician’s referral is required.  Medicare and many private insurance companies cover pulmonary rehabilitation as a benefit. 

For more information on DCH’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, please call Mrs. Williams at (812) 537-8171 or (800) 676-5572, ext. 4137.