Multicomponent Interventions for Patients with Chronic Dyspnea: A Scoping Review

ObjectiveThis study aimed to clarify combined support methods in multicomponent interventions for patients experiencing chronic dyspnea.DesignScoping review following Arksey and O'Malley's standard framework.Study selectionPubMed, CINAHL, and Ichushi Web were searched from inception to June 20, 2025. Randomized controlled trials reporting combined interventions (two or more) for alleviating chronic dyspnea in patients with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, chronic respiratory disease, or chronic heart failure were included.ResultsOf 6439 screened papers, 39 were selected. Qualitative thematic analysis identified 17 support elements: exercise and training, education, breathing exercises, breathing techniques, expert home visits, telephone follow-up, palliative care specialist consultation, oxygen therapy, relaxation techniques, repositioning, pharmacology, psychological support, fan therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, progressive relaxation exercises, acupressure, and non-invasive ventilation. Among these combinations of support elements, exercise and training were included most frequently, followed by education and breathing exercises.ConclusionsSeventeen elements were identified as components of comprehensive support for patients with chronic dyspnea. The findings of this study may contribute to understanding the current state of multimodal interventions for patients with chronic dyspnea and to considering feasible support strategies. In particular, the frequent combination of exercise and training, education, and breathing exercises suggests that interventions targeting physical function and support for self-management are emphasized.