Coping With Breathlessness in Individuals With Lung Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis.
J Pain Symptom ManageJun 29, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPulmonology
Cheng Cheng, Naomi Takemura, Qingling Wang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-synthesis examined how individuals with lung diseases cope with breathlessness, synthesizing findings from 33 studies. Key results revealed five interrelated themes, including the overwhelming physical experience and the psychological impact of breathlessness. The study emphasizes the need for holistic interventions to support patients' coping strategies.
Key findings
- Five interrelated themes of coping with breathlessness were identified: physical experience, psychological impact, coping strategies, social impact, and environmental influences.
- The synthesis highlights the ongoing vulnerability and need for continuous adaptation in individuals living with breathlessness.
- Coping strategies range from self-management to seeking healthcare and social support.
Why it matters
Understanding how patients cope with breathlessness is crucial for developing effective interventions that address the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of their experience, ultimately improving patient care.