Is the programme suitable for everybody? The programme will not be suitable for you at the moment if you have: • uncontrolled blood pressure • been discharged from hospital in the last four weeks • uncontrolled angina • had a heart attack within the last three months • had a pulmonary embolus (blood clot in your lung) or a deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in your leg) within the last three months unless you are receiving treatment • had surgery in the last six weeks
How can I find out more about COPD or respiratory disease? You can speak to your health professional or contact: The British Lung Foundation Tel: 0845 8505020 Email: enquiries@blf-uk.org Breathe Easy Dewsbury Tel: 01924 400116
Respiratory Nurse Specialist Team Kirklees Primary Care Trust / Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Tel: 01924 512156
For further copies of this leaflet contact the communications team, Kirklees PCT on 01484 466044. Reference: mh1753 Date of publication: Sep 2008 © Kirklees Primary Care Trust
www.kirklees.nhs.uk
This information can be made available in other formats including large print and other languages.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation A guide for patients
Do you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or a respiratory disease?
Who runs the course? The programme will be provided by:
What will happen at the course?
Are you frightened you will get out of breath if you do too much?
• A physical activity advisor
• A dietician
Do you wish you could do more?
• An occupational therapist
• Respiratory nurse specialists
Do you feel isolated?
• A psychologist
• A doctor
• A physiotherapist
• Expert patient tutors
Are you too breathless to go shopping or do housework?
If you have answered yes to any of these questions, pulmonary rehabilitation may be suitable for you. What is pulmonary rehabilitation?
Courses usually take place in a local health centre or another designated site but we will tell you the exact location before the programme starts. The sessions are free, informal and friendly.
There will be approximately 12 people with similar problems on the course. All we ask is that you commit to attending and participate in the programme.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a six week programme of exercise and education designed specifically for people with breathing problems. Before the programme you will have to be assessed to make sure this programme is suitable for you. You will also have a follow up assessment on completion of the programme. The programme aims to help you take control of your condition by giving you the skills and confidence to approach life positively. It is not a cure but might help you feel better, more in control and increase your levels of activity.
Please bring your blue inhaler with you to each session. What should I wear? Comfortable clothing and flat shoes.
How do I get on a programme? How often do I have to attend? The programme runs twice a week with one hour of exercise and one to two hours of discussion to help you manage your condition. You will be encouraged to put what you have learnt into practice.
Section 3 - rehabilitation and education programmes
Speak to your GP, practice nurse, hospital nurse or doctor or any other healthcare professional. They will refer you for an assessment to make sure the programme is suitable for you.
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