Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rehabilitation on psychological profiles, dyspnea and survival

PhD ceremony: Mr. J.N. de Voogd, 16.15 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Thesis: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rehabilitation on psychological profiles, dyspnea and survival

Promotor(s): prof. R. Sanderman

Faculty: Medical Sciences

For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) living with its symptoms and consequences is a burden. Many patients experience breathlessness or dyspnea, fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance. Living with these symptoms can be distressing and may result in sensations of anxiety and depression. Moreover, it can trigger, or be accompanied by pre-existing, psychological symptoms. These psychological symptoms can interfere with adequate disease management, treatment adherence maintaining a healthy life style. This thesis addresses the prevalence and impact of psychological symptoms in patients with COPD who are referred for pulmonary rehabilitation.