[Chronic respiratory insufficiency. Psychosomatic considerations]

Chronic respiratory failure defined in terms of limitation of activity rather than airflow obstruction is classified under five subgroups which take account of this consideration. Those aspects which are more specifically psychological and social such as: anxiety, withdrawal from society, the lack of emotions and depression are touched upon (and literature is reviewed on this subject). These are briefly discussed with the aim of both understanding and being aware of the difficulties to achieve the most complete approach possible towards the patient and his problems. One compares whether inhalation therapy is more efficient than psychotherapy and touches on anxiolytic therapy, hypnosis, antidepressants and neuroleptics (with a diminution in drug therapy of the order of 50 to 80% compared to the usual dosage). The relation of the therapist and his teaching role for the patient and his close family are presented as being extremely useful.