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Coping With Breathlessness in Individuals With Lung Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis
Cheng Cheng1, Naomi Takemura2, Qingling Wang3
1School of Nursing (C.C., X.C.), Fudan University, Shanghai, China; School of Nursing (C.C., N.T., J.Y.), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Individuals with lung disease cope with breathlessness through multifaceted strategies, encompassing self-management, healthcare, and social support. Understanding these coping mechanisms is vital for improving patient care and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Qualitative Health Research
Background:
- Breathlessness significantly impacts daily life for individuals with lung diseases.
- Requires continuous physical, emotional, and social adjustments.
- Understanding patient coping mechanisms is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize qualitative evidence on how individuals cope with breathlessness in lung diseases.
- To identify common themes and experiences related to coping with dyspnea.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-synthesis following ENTREQ guidelines.
- Comprehensive search across major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ERIC).
- Thematic analysis of 33 included qualitative studies appraised using CASP tool.
Main Results:
- Identified five interrelated themes: physical/sensory experience, psychological/emotional impact, coping strategies (self-management to support), social/relational impact, and environmental influences.
- Highlighted the complex, multidimensional nature of coping with breathlessness.
- Demonstrated the interplay between personal, social, and environmental factors in coping.
Conclusions:
- Living with breathlessness involves ongoing vulnerability and adaptation.
- Emphasizes the need for holistic, context-aware interventions supporting symptom management, identity, and social connection.
- Informing compassionate healthcare and research through a deeper understanding of patient coping strategies.
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