Effectiveness of breathing exercises in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of breathing exercises in the reduction of dyspnoea among the COPD patients. Methods: A quantitative research approach, quasi experimental pre-test and post-test control group design was used in the study. The study was theoretically supported by the frame work based on goal attainment theory of Imogen King. The study was conducted in pulmonology wards of a teaching institute in South India. A total of 60 subjects were selected. The samples were selected by using convenient sampling technique. BODE index was used to grade dyspnoea. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: 63% of patients were having BODE index score between 4 and 7. In the experimental group the mean pre-test value was 6.13 and the mean post-test value was 2.96 and significant at p value 0.001 level. The post interventional level of dyspnoea of both groups was analysed by using Mann Whitney test, and showed a p value of 0.001. There is significant reduction in the level of dyspnoea after practising breathing exercises compared with control group. Conclusion: There is significant reduction in the level of dyspnoea among COPD patients with breathing exercises.