In many studies, it has been reported that baroreceptor activity and heart rate variability decrease and resting heart rate (RHR) increases in COPD patients due to changes in cardiac autonomic function. Among the recommendations regarding pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and exercise training in COPD patients, approaches such as including practices targeting RHR and developing implementation strategies that improve the cardiovascular system are recommended. The primary aim of our study is to examine the effect of comprehensive exercise training consisting of breathing, aerobic and strengthening exercises on RHR in COPD patients, and secondarily to determine the factors that affect RHR change after PR in COPD patients.
110 COPD patients who were participated in the PR program were included in our retrospective study. Resting Heart Rate , pulmonary functions, functional capacity, perception of dyspnea, quality of life and psychological symptoms compared before and after PR.
