Eating and drinking experience in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a qualitative study
Objective To explore eating and drinking experiences of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the impact of any changes associated with their diagnosis and any coping mechanisms developed by patients. Setting Pulmonary fibrosis support groups around the UK and the regional Interstitial Lung Diseases Clinic, Newcastle upon Tyne. Participants 15 patients with IPF (9 men, 6 women), median age 71 years, range (54–92) years, were interviewed. Inclusion criteria included competent adults (over the age of 18 years) with a secure diagnosis of IPF as defined by international consensus guidelines. Patients were required to have sufficient English language competence to consent and participate in an interview. Exclusion criteria were a history of other lung diseases, a history of pre-existing swallowing problem of other causes that may be associated with dysphagia and individuals with significant communication or other memory difficulties that render them unable to participate in an