The Role of Non Invasive Ventilation in Quality of Life in Neuromuscular Diseases

In patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs), respiratory conditions represent a relevant threat which can progressively impacts on their quality of life. Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV) has been shown to significantly improve respiratory parameters and to extend survival in patients affected by different NMDs. Although once therapy is undertaken, an improvement is generally detected, its impact on both psychological factors and quality of life is frequently mentioned and less studied. Nevertheless, underestimating the quality of life of NMDs patients can influence both the kind of therapies and the ways through which they are offered. An accurate assessment of quality of life and the involved psychological factors should be undertaken routinely before offering patients the option to undertake NIV and during follow ups.