Extra-pulmonary impact of COPD
To target the extrapulmonary impact of COPD, exercise programmes such as pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in combination with nutritional therapy, may have a key role. Over time, the exercise leads to an increase in the patient’s muscle mass and physical capacity. PR programmes can be initiated in hospital, in the clinic, or in the community and they are most effective when targeted nutrition such as Respifor® is included as part of the exercise programme. 2
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes are highlighted in treatment guidelines as an essential step in the treatment pathway for mild, moderate and severe COPD patients. 2
References:
2. Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. Global strategy for the diagnosis, management and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Available at http://www.goldcopd.com/Guidelineitem.asp?l1=2&l2=1&intId=2003 [Accessed August 2009]