Professional Faqs: Is Walking Recommended For Someone With Moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, 80 Years Of Age And With Some Shortness Of Breath When Walking?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease image

Expert opinion from Manju Narayani

Doctor of Medicine (MD) · 10 years of experience · India

Walking is a low impact exercise which can improve the body’s ability to utilise oxygen. A regular walking routine can be recommended for a 80 year old person with a moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Walking at a moderate pace for 30 mins can have benifits in a person suffering with moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, it improves the cardiorespiratoy fitness which can strengthen the respiratory muscles. Walking is a component of pulmonary rehabilitation program for those people suffering with chronic respiratory illness like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Expert opinion from Marcelle Freire

Doctor of Medicine · 3 years of experience · Brazil

Studies show that at any stage of COPD (mild, moderate or severe) physical exercises and pulmonary rehabilitation improve the patient’s conditioning, physical capacity and exercise tolerance, reducing the sensation of shortness of breath and weakness. However, it should be made clear that these physical activities must be planned and monitored by a qualified professional, within a rehabilitation program, adapted to the needs and capacity of the patient.

→ Learn more about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Expert opinion from Gustavo Campos

Doctor of Medicine · 9 years of experience · Brazil

Yes, even though it results in some shortness of breath, exercise is good for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The patient should, however, have a well-controlled disease, and any underlying conditions should not be related to the patient’s shortness of breath.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.