Respiratory physiotherapy – caring for patients experiencing the effects of COVID-19

Lung health
Respiratory physiotherapy

At Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, we provide comprehensive treatment for patients with cardiac and respiratory conditions – including physiotherapy.

The hospitals’ team of respiratory physiotherapists are specialists in the field of breathing. They provide help to patients enabling them to:

  • Exercise safely if they have underlying heart or lung conditions;
  • Provide rehabilitation following a long hospital stay;
  • Prescribe airway clearance regimes for those suffering recurrent chest infections and/ or difficulty clearing their chest;
  • Retrain patient’s dysfunctional breathing patterns;

Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Specialist Care respiratory physiotherapists are highly experienced, providing comprehensive assessments, as well as advice and treatment for patients with a range of conditions such as bronchiectasis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease (ILD), asthma or other breathing disorders.

Respiratory physiotherapy for patients with COVID-19

As the COVID-19 affects the respiratory system, the respiratory physiotherapist’s role is vital on the front-line helping people in hospital, and virtually to support those unwell at home.

Their skills are of particular benefit in areas such as:

  • Rehabilitation for those who have spent prolonged periods in intensive care on mechanical ventilation;
  • Weaning from mechanical ventilation;
  • Managing those with underlying lung conditions who contract COVID-19;
  • Providing rehabilitation for high-risk patients who will have been less active during the COVID-19 pandemic;
  • Managing those who now have lung disorders as a result of the virus;
  • Helping those with anxiety disorders, breathing pattern problems or hyperventilation syndrome as a result of the trauma.

High-risk of severe complications from COVID-19

People who experience problems with their breathing, have an underlying respiratory condition, or are prone to chest infections are at higher risk of complications from COIVD-19. It is therefore important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, focusing on keeping the chest clear during the pandemic.

There are several techniques one can follow to maintain good health:

  • Performing airway clearance exercises. This must be performed daily to keep the chest clear of secretions and to ward off any infection while the virus continues to be a threat;
  • Staying as active as possible within to maintain fitness levels;
  • Continue to take prescribed medications;
  • Staying hydrated. Most health authorities recommend 2 litres of natural water daily. This does not include fizzy drinks, caffeinated drinks (tea/coffee) or alcohol.