Effect of Breather on Ventilatory and Vascular Function in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients With Intermittent Claudication

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of the Breather device on breathing and blood vessel function in men aged 55 to 60 years with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and intermittent claudication, a symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) causing leg pain during walking. The study focuses on how using this inspiratory muscle trainer might improve muscle strength, reduce breathlessness, and increase exercise tolerance in these patients. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups for 4 weeks, with sessions held three times per week. One group receives aerobic exercise on a treadmill for 20 minutes, Breather device training with light to medium resistance for 3 to 5 sets per session, and pursed lip breathing. The other group receives usual pharmacological treatment along with pursed lip breathing and treadmill exercise for 20 minutes. This design allows comparison between the Breather device plus exercise and standard care with exercise. Throughout the study, participants undergo assessments that include spirometry tests to measure lung function and Doppler ultrasound to evaluate blood vessel function, both after 4 weeks. Functional capacity is tested using a sit-to-stand test and treadmill exercise testing. Researchers will monitor participants' respiratory and vascular responses to treatment. The total participation lasts for the 4-week treatment period, with detailed evaluation of breathing and vascular outcomes.

Effect of Breather in COPD Patients With Intermittent Claudication