PEP-buddy in COPD: Effect on Dyspnea Severity and Mechanism of Action

Brief Summary

Chronic dyspnea is the most characteristic symptom of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with intermittent increases during exercise and other events.Despite optimal standard therapy, episodic dyspnea is a common occurrence in COPD. Recently, the PEP buddy was developed which is an easy-to use, hands-free device that generates positive expiratory pressure (PEP). Although currently the available evidence is limited, it indicates that utilizing the PEP-buddy can result in enhancements in dyspnea during exertion, exertional desaturation and overall quality of life. More research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this device and the long term usability, as well as getting more insight in the mechanism of action. Therefore, the aim of our study is to explore the potential of this device for patients with COPD and episodic breathlessness.