Sexual problems in chronic respiratory disease

Preview

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) find that it affects every aspect of their life, including their sexual functioning. Physicians have long recognized the importance of psychosocial factors in management of chronic illness, but they often shy away from discussing sexual issues with patients. Patients, too, may be reluctant to bring up the topic. This is unfortunate, since psychological factors—including sexual adjustment—may determine how a patient with COPD manages the illness. In the following article, Dr Thompson explains how to broach the topic of sex and suggests approaches that will help patients with COPD achieve a full sexual life.