Dyspnoea and oxygen therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is common, incurable and characterized by disabling dyspnoea, functional decline and reduced quality of life. The mechanisms underlying dyspnoea in COPD are complex and few strategies have been found to alleviate it. Oxygen therapy has been shown to improve survival for patients with COPD and severe resting hypoxaemia when used for ⩾15 hours per day, long-term. Objectives: This paper reviews factors contributing to dyspnoea in COPD and the role of oxygen therapy in its management. Major findings: The causes of dyspnoea in COPD are not fully understood. Dyspnoea involves an interaction between altered pulmonary mechanics and abnormaliti..