Value of pulmonary rehabilitation in interstitial lung diseases

Background Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are restrictive pulmonary disorders that make lungs unable to expand on inhalation. Persistent symptoms and/or limitation in usual efforties make pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) very helpful. Aim To assess the purpose of PR in improvement of dyspnea, quality of life, and functional capacity in patients with ILDs. Patients and methods A total of 20 adult patients with ILDs were selected from the ward of the Chest Diseases Department at Al-Maamora Chest Hospital. They were subjected to PR program (three sessions per week for 6 weeks). The program is composed of endurance, strengthening, and breathing exercises. Spirometry, arterial blood gas analysis, 6-min walking distance, aerobic capacity (VO2 peak) using Rockport formula, peripheral muscle strength assessment, dyspnea assessment (modified Medical Research Council), and health-related quality of life (HRQL) score using St George's Respiratory Questionnaire were assessed before and after the sixth week of the program. Results There was crucial influence in modified Medical Research Council (P=0.001), 6-min walk test (P <= 0.001), maximal inspiratory pressure (P=0.003), maximal expiratory pressure (P=0.003), VO2 peak (P=0.005), and HRQL (P <= 0.001). However, arterial blood gas and spirometry showed no important advancement after the program. Conclusion PR improves exercise capacity, dyspnea, peripheral muscle strength, and HRQL in patients with ILD.