The Impact of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A Case Report

Abstract

This study focuses on a 56-year-old male laborer who presented to the respiratory department with grade III dyspnea persisting for 20 days, aggravated in the mornings, accompanied by chest pain over the last two days. The patient reported a productive cough producing yellowish sputum for 15 days and an ongoing fever during this period. With a two-year medical history of seasonal bronchial asthma, the patient had been using an inhaler three times daily for the past month. Additionally, a 20-year history of smoking, averaging five cigarettes per day, was disclosed. Investigations revealed hyperinflation of the lungs on X-ray, indicative of an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). The patient was prescribed a four-week pulmonary rehabilitation protocol, incorporating physiotherapy. Baseline assessments were conducted using outcome measures such as pulmonary function test (PFT), functional independence measure (FIM), and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) before initiating treatment to evaluate the patient's performance. Following the prescribed pulmonary rehabilitation regimen, notable improvements were observed in PFT, FIM, and 6MWD. These findings underscore significant enhancements in exercise tolerance and overall functional capacity. The results suggest that a structured pulmonary rehabilitation program can lead to meaningful clinical benefits in individuals experiencing AECOPD, particularly when tailored to individual patient needs and characteristics.

Keywords: acute exacerbation; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; dyspnea; physical therapy; pulmonary rehabilitation.

Figure 1. X-ray showing (A) increased mediastinal widening and (B) mild obliteration of angle

Figure 2. Patient ambulating in the ward

Figure 3. Patient performing static cycling