Authors: Gabriela-Marina Brînduș1, Eugenia-Andreea Marcu2, Mihai Olteanu2,
Magdalena Rodica Trăistaru3
Affiliation
1 PhD Student, Doctoral School, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
2 Internal Medicine – Department of Pulmonology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
3 Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
Abstract
Background. COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) is caused by a new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). Patients previously diagnosed with obstructive ventilatory dysfunction: COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or asthma that becomes infected with SARS-CoV-2 are more prone to severe forms of the disease.
Aims. The aim of our study was to analyze the effects of the individualized respiratory rehabilitation program – correct bed posture, percussion of the chest wall, breathing exercises and kinetic exercises – on respiratory function, range of motion and quality of life in patients diagnosed with obstructive ventilatory dysfunction (COPD or asthma) and COVID-19. We also looked at the extent to which the diagnosis of obstructive ventilatory dysfunction influenced the severity of COVID-19.
Methods. We performed a retrospective study, between May 2020 – April 2021, with 69 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who were divided into two groups: the first group G1-30 of known patients with COPD and the second group G2-39 of known patients with asthma.
Results. Clinical and functional parameters had a significant modification (increased oxygen saturation of arterial blood, improvement of dyspnea, maintenance of balance, increased quality of life) after the inclusion of patients in the rehabilitation program.
Conclusions. Patients with obstructive ventilatory dysfunction, especially patients diagnosed with COPD, male, smokers, are more prone to the development of severe forms of COVID-19. The altered body mass index in the sense of underweight or obesity contributes to the appearance of complications, implicitly to moderate and severe forms of COVID-19. The consequences of COVID-19 can be treated by pulmonary rehabilitation.
Key words: pulmonary rehabilitation, COVID-19, obstructive ventilatory dysfunction.
Pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with obstructive ventilatory dysfunction and COVID-19
