Exercises for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

What effect does COPD have on my ability to be active?

COPD leaves you short of breath—uncertain and perhaps worried about your ability to exercise. However, a lack of activity means your muscles, heart, and lungs continue to get weaker—resulting in greater shortness of breath, more weakness, and less ability to exercise.

This harmful cycle can result in less independence, depression, isolation, and a weakened immune system, making it difficult to prevent and fight infections.

Test Your Knowledge

1. Shortness of breath in COPD can lead to a loss of independence.

1. True
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Author:	Douglas Dana Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: August 28, 2006
Medical Review:	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Ken Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology
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