Comparison of the outcomes of spa treatment of varying duration for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a multicenter study

Purpose. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of spa treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) lasting 7, 14, 18, and 21 days in order to determine the optimal duration. Material and methods. An open, multicenter, randomized trial was conducted, fifty-five patients diagnosed with COPD were included. Before and after the spa treatment, the following were performed: the mMRC dyspnea scale, a general clinical examination, a 6-minute walk test, spirometry, a complete blood count, and testing (the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the EQ-5L quality of life questionnaire). Treatment included generally accepted methods: smoking cessation, medication, aerotherapy, therapeutic exercises according to the methodology for respiratory diseases; low-intensity laser radiation on the projection of the lung roots; alternating magnetic field exposure to the posterior chest surface; mineral water inhalations; general baths with pine extract; and exercises on a medical treadmill. Results. An improvement in quality of life, a decrease in depression, and an increase in exercise tolerance were noted dynamically, beginning on the 7th day of the spa treatment. These changes were maintained on days 14, 18, and 21 of the spa treatment. From the 18th day of spa treatment, an increase in respiratory function parameters was observed, and by the 21st day, a decrease in depression and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the complete blood count. Conclusion. The optimal duration of spa treatment for COPD is 18 days. Shorter periods of spa treatment can improve physical performance, personality psychological profile, and quality of life