Investigating the Role of Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction on Dyspnea and Exercise Intolerance in Interstitial Lung Disease
Dyspnea (i.e. breathlessness) and exercise intolerance are common symptoms for patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD), yet it is not known why. It has been suggested that muscle dysfunction may contribute to dyspnea and exercise intolerance in ILD. Our study aims to: i) examine differences in the structure and function of the leg muscles in ILD patients, ii) determine if leg muscle fatigue contributes to dyspnea and exercise limitation in patients with ILD, and iii) determine the effects of breathing extra oxygen on leg muscle fatigue, as well as ability to exercise in ILD patients.
• Age 40-80 years (inclusive)
• A multidisciplinary diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), idiopathic fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), or unclassifiable ILD with a differential diagnosis that consists of the above diagnoses
• Fibrosis on high resolution computed tomography (HRCT): honeycombing, reticulation, or traction bronchiectasis
• Appropriate candidate for pulmonary rehabilitation
• 6 minute walk distance 50m or more
• Oxygen saturation ≥ 92% by pulse oximetry at rest while breathing room air
• Clinically stable for the preceding 6 weeks
• Can fluently read and write in English
• Age 40-80 (inclusive)
• Normal pulmonary function (80-120% predicted)
• No lung or cardiovascular disease
• Can fluently read and write in English