NHS teams in Dorset are raising awareness about local free courses that can help people with lung conditions breathe easier, build strength, and feel more in control of their lives, as part of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Awareness Week (June 16 – 20).
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a six-week course designed to help people who have lung diseases like COPD, chronic asthma, bronchiectasis or interstitial lung disease who are experiencing breathlessness on day-to-day tasks.
The course is run by expert NHS teams and helps people breathe more easily, feel less tired, and live a better life.
Dorset resident Jo Cheeseman, who lives with a lung condition, has completed all the sessions. She recommends people living with a lung condition attend. She said: “Such a welcoming, knowledgeable, and professional team who gave me more confidence to exercise and build strength. Thank you.”
Claire Peak, Highly Specialist Physiotherapist from Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, who leads the service said: “We want to help people living with long-term lung diseases to live full and healthy lives. Pulmonary rehabilitation gives people simple and effective health advice, so they can understand their condition better. We know that these rehab sessions can help cut hospital time in half. Nine out of 10 people say they feel better after the course, and you have the opportunity to meet other people who know what it’s like to live with a lung condition. We run the classes regularly and people can ask their respiratory nurse or at their GP surgery to be referred.”
The sessions take place all cross Dorset in Dorchester, Weymouth, Portland, Bridport, Wareham, Poole, Boscombe, Kinson and Sturminster Newton.
“I feel more confident now. I understand my condition and I know how to help myself,” said another local patient.
Another patient said: “I was scared to move before. Now I know it’s safe to keep active, and I feel more positive.”
For people with lung diseases like COPD or chronic asthma who are limited by day-to-day breathlessness, people can ask their respiratory nurse or general practice surgery about a referral to Pulmonary Rehab.
Claire added: “There is an assessment before the course, and we will give you ongoing support to help you stay well when you complete the course. Ask at your surgery today if you think you might be able to attend.”
To find out more, visit the Pulmonary Rehabilitation webpage.
People can also call Dorset County Hospital: 01305 255203 or email pulmonaryrehab@dchft.nhs.uk to find out more.
