The non-pharmacological management of COPD is a neglected area in the treatment of respiratory diseases

Date
2009-04
Authors
Irusen, E. M.
Plekker, D.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health and Medical Publishing Group (HMPG)
Abstract
An almost uniformly neglected area of respiratory disease management is the non-pharmacological component. Most patients with chronic respiratory illnesses will lose their exercise capacity (deconditioning) as the illness progressively limits physical activity. It is usually not appreciated that as medication improves the disease state and static lung function, normalisation of physical activities does not automatically ensue – it has to be re-established. Many patients with obstructive lung disease will inappropriately use rescue bronchodilator therapy when experiencing dyspnoea with exertion, whereas the real problem is that of deconditioning.
Description
The original publication is available at http://www.cmej.org.za/index.php/cmej
Keywords
Lungs -- Diseases, Obstructive -- Treatment
Citation
Irusen, E. M. & Plekker, D. 2009.The non-pharmacological management of COPD is a neglected area in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Continuing Medical Education, 27(4): 162-164.