EFFECT OF PULMONARY REHABILITATION IN PATIENTS OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE: A HOSPITAL BASED CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) is an obstructive and progressive airway disease associated with reduction in daily physical activity and psychological problems related to patient's disability and poor quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation(PR) plays an essential role in the management of COPD, by breaking the vicious circle of dyspnea–decreased activity–deconditioning–isolation. AIM: This study aimed to highlight the impact of PR on COPD patients while focusing on the clinical usefulness of PR. MATERIALS & METHODS: This study was done over a period of 1.5 years including all the diagnosed cases of COPD (both OPD and IPD) who did not have any acute exacerbation requiring oxygen, not associated with other medical conditions such as heart disease, neurological disease, lumbar spondylitis or osteoarthritis or those unable to perform PFT after taking proper consent. The study was completed with a follow up schedule, monthly, for 3 months. Proforma for the study included demographics, history, examination, dyspnea grading using modied Borg scale as well as CAT questionnaire along with a six-minute walk test and spirometry. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Version 20 (Chicago Inc., USA). Data comparison was done by applying specic statistical tests to nd out the statistical signicance of the comparisons. Quantitative variables were compared using mean values and qualitative variables using proportions. Signicance level was xed at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Out of total 227 cases, only 71 completed the 3-month monthly follow up and hence were used for the statistical analysis. The results showed male:female ratio 80.3:19.7. As per Borg scale, mean fever, chest pain, cough, expectoration and dyspnea score decreased over subsequent follow-up. Rate of hospitalisation was seen more in 61-70 year age group. Mean sixminute walk test value increased continuously during the duration of follow up. CONCLUSION: Effective pulmonary rehabilitation that incorporates exercise schedules and patient education compreh ensively can encompass treatment and improve the quality of life of patients suffering with COPD.