ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors review the rationale and goals for long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT), highlight the evidence for its application to reduce dyspnea, and comment on its application in the clinical setting. They summarize the evidence supporting the application of oxygen to relieve dyspnea in other conditions and the use of newer oxygen delivery devices. The relationship between dyspnea and oxygen is both complex and interesting. Ambulatory oxygen, the use of supplemental oxygen during exercise and daily activities, is often prescribed for patients not qualifying for LTOT who have exertional desaturation and show improved symptoms and exercise capacity with supplemental oxygen. Exertional dyspnea is one of the most common presenting symptoms of interstitial lung disease and becomes increasingly marked as the underlying disease progresses. Dyspnea is also a principle complaint of patients with heart failure, and supplemental oxygen has been used routinely to relieve dyspnea associated with left ventricular dysfunction, particularly in the acute setting.
