• Share
• Print
• Text Size A A A

Physical Activity

If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), physical activity, such as climbing stairs, may leave you short of breath. It may seem ironic, but the best way to manage this problem may be to get more exercise, as long as your doctor approves.

Aerobic exercise (such as walking, swimming, or biking) improves the way your body uses oxygen, so you may feel less short of breath. In addition, exercise may:

• Give you more strength and endurance for daily activities
• Improve heart health
• Reduce anxiety and depression

Getting Started

Of course, you should consult your doctor before you begin any new exercise program. Once you have his or her go-ahead, here are some simple pointers to get you started:

• Do some light stretches first or start out at a slow pace for a few minutes until you warm up.
• Choose an activity you enjoy, preferably one that doesn't require a lot of planning or equipment. With fewer barriers, you may exercise more regularly.
• Exercise with a friend.
• Try walking, slow-dancing, swimming, or riding a stationary bike.
• Start by setting a goal you know you can achieve — like walking for 5 or 10 minutes, two to four times a week. If possible, gradually increase your time.
• To avoid boredom, try something new, like upper-body weight training with light weights.
• Always cool down for a few minutes by stretching or walking at a slower pace. This will bring your heart rate back to normal. Use your oxygen if you need it.

Is pulmonary rehabilitation for you?

Not sure how much exercise you can do? Join a pulmonary rehab program and you'll get supervision by trained health professionals.

Pulmonary rehab programs may help improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life for people with chronic lung diseases such as COPD.

A typical program, usually offered by a hospital, includes education and exercise classes that teach you about your condition and how to exercise and be more active with less shortness of breath.

Classes are offered for groups, so you can meet others with your condition. You'll have a chance to give and get support from professionals and people just like you who are trying to live better with COPD and other chronic lung diseases.

Ask your doctor about pulmonary rehab programs in your area or call the American Lung Association Helpline at 1-800-LungUSA (1-800-586-4872).

Sex and COPD

COPD does not necessarily reduce your desire for or your ability to have sex. But many people with COPD (and their partners) fear that sexual activity will lead to shortness of breath.

If you miss the intimacy you used to enjoy, consult with your doctor. Your doctor knows your complete medical history and can determine if there are any issues you need to be concerned about.

If your doctor thinks it's okay, here are some tips for getting back into the swing of things:

• Be open to changing your usual routine to conserve energy and breath.
• Choose the time of day when breathing is easiest.
• Try a side-by-side position and focus more attention on caressing — it may be less tiring.

You don't have to let COPD take away your enjoyment of sexual intimacy and the benefit of feeling close to your partner.