C Bausewein1. 1. Klinik und Poliklinik für Palliativmedizin, Klinikum der Universität München, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, München, Deutschland. claudia.bausewein@med.uni-muenchen.de.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Breathlessness is a frequent and distressing symptom in advanced disease. It can have a significant impact on the quality of life of both patients and relatives. OBJECTIVES: A summary of nonpharmacological and pharmacological measures for breathlessness based on existing evidence is provided. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analysis of primary studies, reviews and guidelines for the named symptoms and their management were analyzed. RESULTS: Recognition and assessment are essential for the management of breathlessness. Management includes various nonpharmacological and pharmacological measures, which should be combined for best results. Nonpharmacological strategies comprise general information, management plan, hand-held fan, physical activity, and rollators. Opioids are the drugs of choice for intractable breathlessness. The evidence base for benzodiazepines and other drugs is rather weak. CONCLUSION: A number of treatment options, especially in the nonpharmacological area, help the patients to better cope with their breathlessness.
BACKGROUND:Breathlessness is a frequent and distressing symptom in advanced disease. It can have a significant impact on the quality of life of both patients and relatives. OBJECTIVES: A summary of nonpharmacological and pharmacological measures for breathlessness based on existing evidence is provided. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analysis of primary studies, reviews and guidelines for the named symptoms and their management were analyzed. RESULTS: Recognition and assessment are essential for the management of breathlessness. Management includes various nonpharmacological and pharmacological measures, which should be combined for best results. Nonpharmacological strategies comprise general information, management plan, hand-held fan, physical activity, and rollators. Opioids are the drugs of choice for intractable breathlessness. The evidence base for benzodiazepines and other drugs is rather weak. CONCLUSION: A number of treatment options, especially in the nonpharmacological area, help the patients to better cope with their breathlessness.
Entities:
Keywords:
Benzodiazepines; Drug therapy, dyspnea; Opioids; Physical activity; Rollators
Authors: M V Lopez Varela; M Montes de Oca; R J Halbert; A Muiño; R Perez-Padilla; C Tálamo; J R B Jardim; G Valdivia; J Pertuzé; D Moreno; A M B Menezes Journal: Eur Respir J Date: 2010-04-08 Impact factor: 16.671
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Authors: Mark B Parshall; Richard M Schwartzstein; Lewis Adams; Robert B Banzett; Harold L Manning; Jean Bourbeau; Peter M Calverley; Audrey G Gift; Andrew Harver; Suzanne C Lareau; Donald A Mahler; Paula M Meek; Denis E O'Donnell Journal: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Date: 2012-02-15 Impact factor: 21.405