Is pulmonary rehab helpful?

Posted by lindagoly @lindagoly, 23 hours ago

Has anyone had pulmonary rehab after radiation treatment? Was it helpful? I didn't have any breathing problems after RML lobectomy, but with the scarring from radiation, I started to have some shortness of breath with moderate activity. I just finished another round of SBRT treatment and have been referred to pulmonary rehab to help my cardiopulmonary system be stronger and tolerate this further reduction in functioning lung surface. I do some cardio at home, lots of yoga breathing. So I'm not sure what pulmonary rehab can do for me (and I'm fighting with insurance to cover it) I do not have obstructive disease (COPD) - just less functioning lung surface. Thank you for sharing your experiences.

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andycapp | @andycapp | 7 hours ago

I went through 30 proton radiation treatments concurrently with 6 weeks of chemo. My lungs are in bad shape with emphysema and fibrosis and now that the radiation is over I’m dealing with fibrosis from that.
My oncologist referred me to a pulmonologist who prescribed an antifibrotic to slow down the ongoing radiation fibrosis. However, that medication caused GI side effects and they’re going to try a different anti-fibrotic as soon as my insurance approves it.
I haven’t been on pulmonary rehab but am interested in what that’s about. I do daily hour-hour and a half walks to keep my lungs functioning.
What is the rehab supposed to do for you?

pinsi | @pinsi | 5 hours ago

I have COPD and was recently treated for stage 1 lung cancer with 5 SBRT which has been successful in destroying the nodule....Last year I went to Pulmonary Rehab for a few months and it really made me feel better...There are all kinds of machines and weights and while using them, your breathing and heart rates are monitored.....Nutritional consults and stress management were part of this protocol too...I did feel better overall and would definitely recommend it to help with breathing....Im 73 and thinking about doing it again ...

corilietz | @corilietz | 5 hours ago

I had surgery but not radiation and it helped me. The RT taught me breathing techniques and also gave me a respiratory therapy breathing device to breathe into and they all helped alot. I was having the same issues as you-short of breath. I only did about 8 sessions but got exercises and techniques. It helped me to do rowing and upper body exercise to get those muscles stronger at therapy too. I'm really glad I did therapy. Best of luck to you!

vic83 | @vic83 | 2 hours ago

Pulmonary Rehab is going to a location and exercising on gym equipment. Make sure there is a good respiratory therapist following you in the place. I was disappointed in my experience. I already know how to do exercises on my own. The real purpose is to get one to exercise and use the lungs.