Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis which are characterised by increasing breathlessness. In persons with severe COPD, oxygen therapy (also known as supplemental oxygen) is a type of treatment that may be prescribed. Supplemental oxygen delivers an extra supply of oxygen into the body that can help improve the symptoms of COPD whether used at rest (long-term oxygen therapy) or while on the move (ambulatory oxygen therapy). Other persons with severe COPD may be prescribed long-term non-invasive ventilation – this involves delivery of breathing support via a ventilator connected to a nose or face mask – and this therapy has been shown to improve survival and quality of life.
Persons with COPD who use supplemental oxygen and/or non-invasive ventilation are likely to suffer major physical problems such as decreased strength and fitness. This may negatively influence their ability to carry out routine daily tasks such as washing and dressing. However little is known about the extent of their physical problems.
This study aims to profile the physical limitations such as strength and fitness in people with COPD who are prescribed supplemental oxygen and/or long-term non-invasive ventilation. The study will involve the conduction of tests of physical performance such as sit to stand, walking ability and muscle strength as well as some questions relating to quality of life and sleep habits. The results will be important to help design targeted rehabilitation programmes for this vulnerable group.
