Dyspnea Models and Measurement
Theoretical Model
Based on our own laboratory experience, reports in the literature, and the more advanced science of pain perception, we developed a theoretical framework positing that dyspnea comprises several uncomfortable sensations. We further posited that each sensation had a sensory quality and and affective component (Lansing et al 2009). This theoretical model is reflected in the very widely cited definition of dyspnea proffered in the American Thoracic Society’s Official Statement on Dyspnea.
Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile
Based on this theoretical framework, and ‘plagiarism’ of various pain measurement instruments, we developed a unified measurement instrument to assess the multiple dimensions of dyspnea, the MULTIDIMENSIONAL DYSPNEA PROFILE (MDP). The original English version is available free, and translations into several other languages are available for nominal cost. (Banzett et al 2008, Meek et al 2012, Banzett et al 2015, Banzett&Moosavi 2017, Stevens et al 2019).
Dyspnea sensations vary in Affective Impact
We tested a fundamental aspect of our model, namely that affective response can vary independently of sensory intensity. We used stimuli producing maximal air hunger and maximal work/effort of breathing, producing approximately the same sensory intensity. The data show that immediate discomfort as well as negative emotions were greater during maximal air hunger compared to maximal work of breathing. (Banzett et al 2008)