Is exercise recommended for COPD and if so what? My 85 year old husband is very breathless and I wondered if anything would help him?

[tojow2]

Breathing difficulties

[Hidden]

It certainly is but your husband may first want to chat with his doctor how to proceed.

In the mean time he could check out the information and video links on this page - even just watching the videos to guage what he would feel safe and comfortable doing.

blf.org.uk/support-for-you/...

The exercises are in 3 level abilities and chair based if that is required too.

[Hidden]

Yes they always say about gentle walking for exercise.

[Comino2]

Keeping as active as possible is always a good thing but do be aware that COPD can cause oxygen levels to fall on exertion.A finger pulse oximeter will help you to be aware of the safe levels.Maybe gentle seated exercises to begin with.Being very breathless can make you hunch your shoulders and lean forwards a lot so any arm movements that 'open' your chest up can help. If in any doubt do seek medical advice. x

[ValentineX]

Hi tojow2, My GP has recommended respiratory breathing exercises, inhaling, exhaling and variations thereof. If you or someone you know could show you on a YouTube video that would show how to achieve them.

[Ergendl in reply to ValentineX]

Yes, singing properly can really help, which is why the British Lung Foundation has a list of singing for lung health groups on its website. Not all will be running at present, though the one I run will be starting up again this Wednesday.

[Biker88]

The hospice that looks after me does seated yoga classes (Covid-19 permitting) very gentle but very effective you know you have been exercising afterwards. It also focuses on correct breathing, plenty on YouTube to try

[Alberta56]

Some good advice here. The consensus is that exercise is fine. Better done under supervision. Are there any pulmonary rehab classes in your area?

[Glen1677]

As others have said it is recommended. Pulmonary rehab if available would be worthwhile investigating as a good physio will also explore breathing techniques and also the correct way to use inhalers as poor technique is as bad as not using them at all. I enjoyed my group sessions for the social side as much as anything else.

[skipwork]

An inhaler before he walks. There are many types. Talk to the physio or GP.

[Smoggy1990Boggy]

Exercise is yes. Pulmonary rehabilitation is amazing run by dedicated professionals and the support from them and the other patients in the class cannot be underestimated. I would encourage your husband to contact the GP surgery in normal hours and 111 or 999 if you are particularly concerned.

[Debs_ALUK Partner British Lung Foundation]

Hi towjow2

I have added a link to information on our website for you about breathlessness you may find useful. You can also call our nurses on 03000 030 555 for advice

blf.org.uk/support-for-you/...

Take care

Debs

[tojow2]

I want to say thank you to all who responded to my question about my husband's breathlessness & exercise. Taking your advice, I'm trying to get a doctor's appointment for him (maybe I'll strike lucky) before he starts doing anything. And if given the OK will research exercises. I'll let you knowThanks again