Why should i take PR classes?
When a patient has a long-term breathing problem, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or another lung condition, they can find it difficult to do their normal daily activities without getting breathless. They may also find that they get tired very easily and often feel exhausted.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) is designed to help the patient cope with being short of breath and feel stronger and fitter at the same time.
Getting out of breath can be very frightening, which can make breathing worse. In trying to avoid this, people often reduce the amount of activity they do. However, this does not help, as over time they become unfit, tired and even more breathless. PR can help by breaking that cycle.
It is normal for everyone, including athletes, to be short of breath when exercising, but this is part of the therapy. A patient will always be monitored and will never be asked to do more than their physiotherapist thinks they can or more than is safe and possible for them.
The people who do best from PR are likely to be those who really want to help themselves, who want to learn and who have a positive attitude.
Comments from Pulmonary Rehabilitation attendees -
Arrowe Park Class
"I can honestly say I can feel the benefits both physically and mentally."
"The Pulmonary Rehabilitation course is excellent. It is very beneficial with exercise and formative talks. It improves our future lives."
Clatterbridge Class
"Really helpful exercise and extremely helpful with education about medications and how to use them."
"Really helpful, told me things I didnt know. Staff are really helpful with time for you if you require information."
Albert Lodge, Victoria Central Hospital Class
"I would recommend this service because of the help and advice I have received myself."
"Brilliant dedicated staff who have definitely improved my quality of life. I'm very grateful and thankful."
"I just wish I could come every week. Thank you, I really have been helped. I don't feel so helpless."