“COPD Palliative Care: Non-Drug Treatments for Shortness of Breath”

Morphine as a treatment for shortness of breath is not nearly as effective as was thought for years, according to the PhD research of pulmonologist Kris Mooren (Spaarne Gasthuis).

Some people with COPD require palliative care. But what should that look like in practice? And how do we support people with COPD who suffer from anxiety and shortness of breath? Mooren attempted to answer these questions in her dissertation.

Her main findings are that many people with COPD think that starting oxygen therapy means they are in the last phase of their lives. Some people also struggle with shame. Furthermore, morphine is not nearly as effective against shortness of breath as was thought for years.

Non-drug treatments such as breathing exercises are likely more effective, she concludes. In addition, cognitive behavioral therapy may be effective in reducing anxiety about breathlessness. And EMDR, too, can probably help reduce the stress associated with shortness of breath.

Mooren, who will receive his doctorate from Radboud University on 11 May, is co-founder and currently chairman of the NVALT Palliative Care Section. In 2016 she completed the 2-year management training palliative care in Cardiff (Wales). She co-wrote the Palliative Care guideline for COPD (2020) on behalf of NVALT.

Bron:

Radboud University