Introduction: The purpose of this study is to explore IPF patients? eating and drinking experiences, and the impact of any changes subsequent to their diagnosis and any coping mechanisms.  

Methods: This qualitative study used purposive sampling to recruit IPF patients from IPF support groups and clinics. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews explored patients? experiences of their eating and drinking, using an evidence-informed topic guide. Interviews were recorded via video or telephone call, transcribed, and data coded and analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:  Fifteen IPF patients (9 M, 6 F), median age 71, range (54-92) years were interviewed via telephone call (n: 5), video call (n: 10).  Three main themes were identified, along with several sub-themes. These were 1) ?Eating, as such, is no longer a pleasure?. This theme focused on the physical and sensory changes in eating and drinking, and the subsequent emotional and social impact. 2) ?It is something that happens naturally and just try and get on with it?.  This theme centred on the self-employed strategies used to manage changes to eating and drinking. 3)  ?What is normal and the new normal?. This theme focuses on patients? information seeking to understand eating and drinking changes and what are their expectations about these changes.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to report on IPF patients? lived experience of swallowing changes due to their diagnosis  Findings demonstrate that some patients have substantial  struggles and challenges with eating and drinking, affecting them physically, emotionally and socially. There is a need to provide better patient information for this area.