Chronic lung diseases are increasingly prevalent and remain among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Dyspnea is a common and often the most distressing symptom experienced by patients with chronic respiratory illnesses. Managing dyspnea that is refractory to optimal treatment of the underlying condition poses significant challenges and remains a topic of ongoing debate. Clinical trials published in recent years have offered new insights into the risks and benefits of opioid use for refractory dyspnea, informing patient counseling and management decisions. This workshop will provide a case-based review of opioid use in dyspnea and address the management of frequently co-occurring anxiety, delivering practical strategies for interdisciplinary teams and clinicians in palliative care and hospice settings.

Learning Outcomes

Review the prevalence, prognosis, and impact of chronic respiratory illnesses, emphasizing the challenges of managing refractory chronic dyspnea.  Discuss current evidence-based literature on the management of dyspnea in chronic respiratory diseases. Highlight practical approaches to chronic dyspnea management tailored for hospice and palliative care practitioners.