Abstract
Background
Exacerbations are known to reduce physical activity, but little is known about their effect on sleep.
Aim
This study measures physical activity and sleep quantity in patients recovering at home following hospitalisation for a COPD exacerbation and compares them with stable COPD patients and controls.
Methods
We recruited 23 COPD patients immediately following hospital admission for exacerbation (Acute), 34 stable COPD patients (Stable) and 19 age-matched people (Control). Physical activity and sleep duration were measured using a SenseWear Pro3 armband for 6 consecutive days. Average number of steps, time lying, walking, sleep and resting were calculated per day. Physical activity level (PAL) was calculated by dividing total energy by resting energy.
Results
The mean FEV1 was 54±24% pred for the Stable and 39±14% pred for the Acute. Activity data are tabulated.
Groups were compared using ANOVA. Acute patients had fewer steps, less walking time, lower step rate and less sleep than Stable and Control. Acute patients slept 1hr 45min less than Stable patients.
Conclusion
Following discharge, exacerbating patients walk less, more slowly and sleep less than stable COPD patients.
- © 2012 ERS