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Dynamic laryngeal narrowing during exercise: a mechanism for generating intrinsic PEEP in COPD?

Abstract

Patients with COPD commonly exhibit pursed-lip breathing during exercise, a strategy that, by increasing intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure, may optimise lung mechanics and exercise tolerance. A similar role for laryngeal narrowing in modulating exercise airways resistance and the respiratory cycle volume-time course is postulated, yet remains unstudied in COPD. The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of laryngeal narrowing and its role in exercise intolerance and dynamic hyperinflation in COPD.


Publication information 

Baz M, Haji GS, Menzies-Gow A, Tanner RJ, Hopkinson NS, Polkey MI, Hull JHThorax 2015 Mar. 70(3): 251-7

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