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

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) is an obstructive and progressiveairway disease associated with reduction in daily physical activity and psychological problems relatedto patient's disability and poor quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation(PR) plays an essential role in the management ofCOPD, 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 (bothOPD and IPD) who did not have any acute exacerbation requiring oxygen, not associated with other medical conditions such asheart disease, neurological disease, lumbar spondylitis or osteoarthritis or those unable to perform PFT after taking properconsent. The study was completed with a follow up schedule, monthly, for 3 months. Proforma for the study includeddemographics, history, examination, dyspnea grading using modied Borg scale as well as CAT questionnaire along with asix-minute walk test and spirometry. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Version 20 (Chicago Inc., USA). Datacomparison was done by applying specic statistical tests to nd out the statistical signicance of the comparisons.Quantitative variables were compared using mean values and qualitative variables using proportions. Signicance level wasxed 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 statisticalanalysis. The results showed male:female ratio 80.3:19.7. As per Borg scale, mean fever, chest pain, cough, expectoration anddyspnea 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 comprehensively can encompass treatment and improve the quality of life of patients suffering with COPD.