Effect of Fan Therapy on dyspnea in patients with chronic respiratory diseases during a 6 MWT: A randomized controlled trial

Details

Supervisors

Reychler, Gregory

Faculty

Faculté des sciences de la motricité

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences de la motricité, orientation générale, à finalité approfondie

Abstract

Introduction: Dyspnea, characterized by uncomfortable and distressing breathing, is prevalent in chronic respiratory diseases and arises from a mismatch between respiratory demand and ventilation response. Activating TRPM8 channels through cold sensations on the face has been shown to alleviate dyspnea. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of fan therapy during a physical activity in reducing dyspnea and enhancing physical capacity in patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Method: This study is a crossover randomized controlled trial comparing the level of dyspnea in patients with chronic breathlessness during a 6-minute walking test with and without a portable fan worn around the neck. Patients were randomized to perform two 6MWTs, either beginning with or without the fan, depending on their assigned group. Results: A total of 25 patients with chronic respiratory disease were recruited and separated into two groups of 12 and 13 subjects, homogeneous in gender distribution. Results showed a significant lower breathlessness at the end of the test as well as in the change of dyspnea during the 6MWT with the fan therapy compared to the 6MWT without (p < 0.001 for both measures). There was a significant increase of the distance traveled every two minutes in absolute (p= 0.014, p = 0.003, p < 0.001 at 2, 4, and 6 minutes, respectively) and relative value (p = 0.003) during the test with fan. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a significant improvement in dyspnea relief and functional capacity when using a ventilator across the face in individuals performing endurance exercise, potentially making it a valuable tool in rehabilitation.