Exercise as it relates to Disease/Exercise as a component of treatment for COPD

Background - What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term used to account for a number of lung conditions that are; irreversible, gradually worsen, and cause breathing difficulties and dyspnea (breathlessness).

What are the Main Types of COPD?

 * Emphysema - The elastic fibres of the air sacs (alveoli) and breathing tubes (bronchi & bronchioles) are irreversibly destroyed causing an inability to breathe regularly or empty the lungs of air.
 * Chronic Bronchitis - Increased mucus production (sputum) due to the constant swelling and irritation of the breathing tubes (bronchi & bronchioles).

Causes of COPD

 * Cigarette smoking - The main cause of COPD. 15-20% of smokers will develop severe lung conditions.
 * Exposure to pathogens - Long term exposure to fumes, cigarette smoke, chemicals or dust
 * Genetic - A very rare condition caused by alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency may cause COPD between the ages of 20-50.

Exercise as a Component of Treatment for COPD
If suffering from COPD, exercise can help you learn to use the lung capacity you have more efficiently. Attending exercise groups run by certified Exercise Physiologists can be inexpensive, improve your quality of life and increase your understanding of the disease as well as allowing you to meet people in the same situation and develop a support network. Pulmonary rehabilitation exercise programs are also beneficial as they can help you acquire the tools to be in control of your breathing, instead of your breathing controlling you and causing extra anxiety and stress. This will allow you to retain your independence and complete daily household tasks.

What Benefits will I see from Exercise?
=== Recommendations for Exercise ===

There are four main recommended exercise types:

Guidelines you Should Know Before Getting Started
An exercise evaluation by a certified exercise physiologist(EP) is highly recommended to assess your current cardiovascular capabilities and any other conditions that may be present eg. cardiac issues. The EP will conduct a range of fitness and medical tests and determine an appropriate exercise program tailored just for you!
 * http://www.essa.org.au/essa-me/how-can-an-accredited-exercise-physiologist-help/

Further Information / suggested reading / Support Groups

 * COPD in Australia The Australian Lung Foundation
 * The COPD-X Plan - Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease 2012 COPD-X
 * COPD Facts COPD Statistics
 * Support Groups for COPD Support Groups