If you contracted COVID-19, you know overcoming the initial phase of the illness is only half the battle. The remainder of the fight is coping with lingering symptoms that persist after infection. Because COVID-19 affects the pulmonary system – your nose, mouth, throat, larynx, windpipe, airways and lungs – seeking pulmonary rehabilitation can ease your symptoms.
Long-Term Effects of COVID-19
Your internal organs – especially your lungs – could sustain permanent damage if you contracted coronavirus. Seniors and people with preexisting health conditions are at particular risk for developing lingering symptoms, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Joint pain
- Confusion or mental “fogginess”
- Headache
- Muscle pain
If you were on a ventilator and required high oxygen levels, you’ll need time to rebuild your lung capacity and respiratory health.
What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?
It’s a type of therapeutic intervention designed to improve lung function through breathing techniques and physical exercise. Pulmonary rehabilitation also provides education and support.
It’s recommended for people with chronic respiratory conditions like lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. If you developed respiratory complications because of a COVID-19 infection – including pneumonia, lung abscesses or respiratory distress syndrome – you may benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation.
Your recovery program will be based on your overall health and preexisting conditions. A team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, physical therapists and exercise specialists will create a well-rounded plan for you.
Rehabilitation often includes:
- Breathing exercises, such as deep breathing and the huff-cough technique
- Endurance, resistance and strength training
- Cardio exercise
- Stretching
Improving Your Lung Capacity
While pulmonary care is usually administered in a hospital, clinic or outpatient facility, there are also steps you can take at home to improve your lung health.
- Invest in an incentive spirometer: This device measures the depth of your breathing and can improve your lung capacity. It encourages long, slow breaths, which strengthen your respiratory muscles.
- Practice deep breathing: Long inhale-exhale cycles strengthen your lungs and support strong breathing.
- Eat a lung-healthy diet: Include healthy fats, lean protein, complex carbs and plenty of potassium in your meals. Avoid foods and beverages that have lots of sodium and sugar.
- Exercise: Walking, swimming, jogging and riding a stationary bike are great ways to get some cardio, which will boost your respiratory system. Talk with your primary care physician before you introduce exercise into your recovery plan.
- Be patient: Post-COVID pulmonary recovery varies. Give yourself time and set realistic expectations as you regain lung capacity and strength. Don’t rush your improvement. Your body will heal at its own pace.
Embassy Healthcare offers 24-hour respiratory care to all our residents. Contact us online or call 216-378-2050 to learn more about our extensive pulmonary services.
