Excercising with COPD
I have been doing some weight lifting. I am a 60 year old female and was diagnosed with COPD about 10 years ago. I use an oximeter to check my oxygen and noticed for instance that with the leg press machine my oxygen drops. Too much for the diaphragm I guess. But if my oxygen is OK can I do whatever I feel comfortable with? I use Advair 250/50, Atrovent and Albuterol. I time these to use within an hour of starting my excercise. I am guessing that I can do anything that I can as long as my oxygen doesn't drop below 90. I don't think I can lose weight unless I can get cardio. I feel I just have to try to lose some weight before this get bad enough for big steroids. Smaller stomach and chest I think helps you to breath better.
Thank you.
River City Girl,
Thanks for your question.
I think you are on the right track with your rationale and efforts so far. However, for safety, I suggest you consult with your physician before embarking on an exercise program that includes cardio. I am concerned about your heart, which can be affected by your lung disease. I want to be sure that the exercise program is safe from a cardiac point of view and therefore the checkup with the doctor is needed. I suggest you discuss the need for a stress test. If clearance is obtained, then consider a consultation with an exercise physiologist to prescribe a program that is tailored to your health situation and needs.
Best wishes.
Martin Cane, M.D.
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