I had severe COPD for 10 years and then received a double lung transplant. Cardo/Pulmonary rehab is probably one of the reasons why I am still alive. I still exercise even 3 years after the transplant. Rehab allowed me to build and tone muscles that were becoming stagnant. They helped allow me to use what little lungs I had left to their fullest capacity. Even when your insurance runs out, if they have a maintainance program, I would recommend spending the money on it. It is a small price to pay for beter quality of life. It also allowed me to meet some amazing people who supported and understood what I was going through.
Orlan Holmes

@A MyCOPDTeam Member says that if you exercise and use pursed lip breathing like Orlan says
you will find that you will breath much better

Mentioned Users

A MyCOPDT...

exercise will help you have more stamina. Pursed lip breathing will also help. When you exercise you tone up your chest muscles so when you are having trouble it can make it less difficult to breath. Being as strong as you can be and exercising your chest muscles will help tremendously if/when you get sick. You are strong enough then to recover easily.

I don't know about breathing better. But, doing the exercise like the threatmill and bike has helped me walk longer, do work around the house longer without getting tired and out of breath and using pursed breathing. I use my rescue inhaler before I go to my therapy.

I have found that exercise and as Orlan said pursed lip breathing is very helpful.
patricia richards