Article

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of inspiratory
muscle training (IMT) on functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength,
pulmonary function, quality of life, and fatigue and dyspnea perception in
patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
METHODS: Twenty-nine
clinically stable PAH patients were included in this study. These patients were
randomly assigned to a 6-week IMT program (14 patients) or to a sham IMT protocol
(15 patients). Before and after the treatment, pulmonary function, respiratory
muscle strength, functional capacity, dyspnea and fatigue perception, and quality
of life were evaluated. RESULTS: There were significant increases in maximal
inspiratory and expiratory pressure, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (%
predicted) and 6-minute walk distance in the IMT group compared with the control
group (P < .05). There were significant decreases in the Fatigue Severity Scale
score, Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scores, and Nottingham Health
Profile emotional reactions subscale in the IMT group compared with the control
group (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Inspiratory muscle training promotes significant
improvements in respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity, thus
resulting in a reduction of dyspnea during activities of daily living and less
fatigue in PAH patients. Inspiratory muscle training is a clinically practical
treatment for PAH without any complications.

Langue : ANGLAIS