Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program for people with chronic lung conditions such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease and post-COVID lung impairment. It combines individually tailored exercise training, education on breathing and self-management, and psychological support. RespCAIR delivers pulmonary rehabilitation at Ramsay Health Noosa Hospital with options for in-person, community and virtual participation.

• Breathlessness limiting daily activities
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Frequent flare-ups requiring antibiotics or steroids
• Loss of confidence in physical activity
• Anxiety or low mood related to breathlessness

• Diagnosis of COPD, severe asthma, bronchiectasis or ILD
• Recovery after hospital admission for respiratory illness
• Post-COVID breathlessness or deconditioning
• Pre- or post-operative thoracic surgery
• Referral for breathlessness and exercise intolerance

• Specialist respiratory assessment with lung function testing
• Exercise capacity assessment
• Individualised exercise prescription
• Education on breathing techniques, medications and flare-up management
• Psychological and lifestyle support
• Ongoing specialist follow-up

Programs are tailored to your condition and capabilities. Patients typically attend supervised sessions for several weeks, with education sessions and a home exercise program. Benefits include improved breathing, increased exercise tolerance, fewer flare-ups and better quality of life.

• Attend prescribed sessions consistently
• Continue home exercise after the program ends
• Use prescribed inhalers and medications correctly
• Stay up to date with vaccinations
• Stop smoking and avoid vaping
• Maintain a healthy diet and weight