ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Although inspiratory muscle training reduces dyspnea in patients with chronic respiratory diseases, it was not yet evaluated in a sample composed exclusively of patients with interstitial lung diseases. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the perception of patients with interstitial lung diseases about inspiratory muscle training intervention. METHODS: This is a qualitative study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, transcribed, and analyzed by thematic analysis. RESULTS: Fourteen patients (64 ± 7 years) with interstitial lung disease were interviewed. Average participation in the inspiratory muscle training program was 90% (range, 66-100%). Three themes were elaborated: 1) dyspnea and other symptoms in daily life (e.g. "I could not carry out a bag; I was very uncomfortable"); 2) less symptom and greater performance (e.g. "I wash and change my clothes, house cleaning, do everything without feeling anything"); and 3) IMT: a time dedicated to my health (e.g. "For me it was great because I saw my evolution every day"). CONCLUSION: Patients noticed improvements in symptoms and performance related to daily activities. Despite initial difficulties, patients continued training as planned.