Patient discussions

Patients should be educated about the progressive nature of the illness and the risks and benefits of any therapy being considered. British Lung Foundation: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) Opens in new window Patients who continue to smoke cigarettes should be counselled to quit (see Smoking cessation). University of Virginia Health System: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis Opens in new window 

Evidence suggests that patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who practice healthy lifestyle behaviours like walking, healthy eating, and regular exercise have improved quality of life with fewer symptoms and hospitalisations.[161]

Patients with severe disease or comorbidities such as pulmonary hypertension or cardiovascular disease should consult their physician prior to air travel to see if they require in-flight oxygen (with or without a prior hypoxic challenge test).[162]

A European Respiratory Society task force has recommended the following for symptom management in adults with serious respiratory illnesses:[94]

  • a multicomponent approach, including at least one non-pharmacological intervention;

  • graded exercise therapy to reduce fatigue;

  • increasing airflow via a fan (handheld or table) or non–oxygen-enriched compressed air directed at the face, nasal mucosa, or mouth;

  • breathing techniques (e.g., yoga, pursed lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, or during pulmonary rehabilitation), aiming to alter the respiratory pattern;

  • a trial of supplemental oxygen for selected patients with severe breathlessness and exertional desaturation who are likely to use the treatment safely;

  • the use of needs assessment tools to identify and monitor people who can benefit from palliative care or other symptom-directed treatment.

The European Respiratory Society task force also suggested avoiding opioid use for breathlessness where possible.[94]

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