Sexuality in patients with breathlessness [Sexualität bei patienten mit beeinträchtigter atmung]

Background: Sexuality in chronic diseases is of increasing significance. In the majority of patients with chronic lung diseases, sexual activity is reduced. Most available data on this topic are based on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Pathogenesis: Dyspnea, cough, muscular weakness, and the associated reduction of physical activity are the main causes of reduced sexual activity in COPD patients. In addition to direct somatic-physical effects of COPD, the associated psychosocial deficits and adverse effects of medication contribute to sexual dysfunction. Treatment: An intact communication between physician and patient is an important issue within a therapeutic strategy. Applying both treatment and be havioral strategies enables even patients with severe lung diseases to be sexually active. Somatic therapy consists of both systemic medication and local interventions to treat sexual dysfunction. If oxygen therapy is indicated, it should be administered also during intercourse. In patients with chronic ventilatory failure, sexual activity may profit from noninvasive mechanical ventilation.