Managing Dyspnea in Individuals With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an unrelenting form of interstitial lung disease associated with a high symptom burden and reported low health-related quality of life. Clinicians have access to limited pharmacologic interventions to help slow the disease progression. Nonpharmacologic interventions are vital in managing dyspnea for these individuals, which is one of the most frequently reported factors that negatively impacts health-related quality of life. Common methods of symptom control include integration of pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen, and interdisciplinary support, such as support groups, palliative care, and case conferences, into routine medical care. This literature review describes a multidisciplinary approach for managing dyspnea to improve health-related quality of life for those with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Findings demonstrate that structured pulmonary rehabilitation programs, fast-track case conferences, and supplemental oxygen therapy are most effective. Further research is needed to demonstrate a clinically significant benefit of palliative care visits in the long term for these individuals.