Abstract
Background: Resent research indicates that pain could be a significant symptom in COPD.
Aim: The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of pain in patients suffering from COPD.
Method: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a strategic sample of COPD patients experiencing pain, representing both Stage III and IV, taking place from April to June 2009. Six patients, both sexes equally represented, mean age 66 years, were recruited from an urban community hospital in Oslo, Norway. The data was analyzed based on Merleau-Ponty's phenomenological philosophy and Giorgi's method.
Results: Patients described various appearances of pain. Three major essences were identified: 1) The life changing pain, 2) the pain of dyspnoea attacks, and 3) the non-communicated pain. Regarding the first essence, pain was described as life changing since it implied a dramatic limitation on their lived life and the painful knowledge of progression. Concerning the second essence, dyspnoea attacks were experienced as physical pain in chest, head and muscles, as well as pain of acute fear of dying due to lack of air. Relating to the third essence, pain was not communicated to health care personnel due to lack of time, fear of not being taken seriously, or that they were never asked. Pain became private, and various methods of relieving pain were sought elsewhere.
Conclusions: Patients with severe COPD experienced pain at a level that interfered with their daily life, which had a negative impact on their quality of life.
- © 2011 ERS
