The Role of Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Supplemental Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary rehabilitation and supplemental oxygen therapy are two interventions commonly employed in the treatment of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Results from a number of studies reveal that pulmonary rehabilitation is associated with several beneficial effects in patients with IPF, including increased exercise capacity and improved quality of life. In fact, the data appear robust enough to support participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program as standard of care for patients with IPF. Supplemental oxygen therapy is universally prescribed for IPF patients with hypoxemia at rest, with exertion, or during sleep, but few studies have been performed to assess its effectiveness in these patients.