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What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
COPD is a disease that makes it difficult to move air into and out of your lungs. It is a progressive disease that causes the airways of the lungs to be inflamed and become "obstructed" or blocked. Drawing a breath can be a difficult, frightening struggle. COPD includes two major breathing diseases -- chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Both make breathing difficult and cause breathlessness. COPD is caused by cigarette smoking, occupational exposure to dusts, and possibly outdoor air pollution. For more information on COPD please visit www.ab.lung.ca.
Who gets COPD?
The number of patients with COPD is on the rise in Canada. Already, more than 750,000 Canadians suffer from the disease. Hundreds of thousands more have COPD but have not been diagnosed. In the Edmonton Capital Health Region, COPD was the fifth leading cause of death in the year 2000. It affects more women than men. Also, 15 to 20 per cent of smokers will develop COPD.
Who can join the Breathe Easy Program?
Anyone who is diagnosed with a chronic lung disorder such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or pulmonary fibrosis can join the Breathe Easy Program with physician referral.
Can individuals who need supplementary oxygen to exercise join the program?
Yes! Patients who use supplementary oxygen at home are instructed to exercise with oxygen to maintain pulse oximetry saturation above 90 per cent. Patients not using oxygen at home, whose saturation levels drop below 85 per cent on a regular basis with exercise, are offered oxygen to maintain saturation above 90 per cent. These patients are then assessed for supplementary home oxygen.
The doctor tells me my lung disorder is irreversible. How will this program help me?
Although we cannot repair the damage that has and will occur in your lungs, we can:
- Help you to improve your strength and endurance by keeping your muscles and heart strong. This will enable you to perform daily activities with less difficulty.
- Teach you effective breathing techniques that enable you to use your respiratory muscles more efficiently to maximize control of breathing.
- Explain the various medications that are available for respiratory problems and how they can be used properly for maximum benefit.
Provide you with many other great tips to help you improve your quality of life.
Will my other health problems interfere with participating in the program
An individual's suitability for the program is assessed by a physician before he or she begins. Individuals with other health problems such as hip/knee replacements, heart problems, diabetes, or arthritis can enter the program with approval from their physician. Once in the program, participants are encouraged to work at their own pace. We offer many alternative exercises to accommodate special needs.
If you would like more information, please contact the Caritas Centre for Lung Health at 482-8951.
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