Clinical Research Studies

This study is looking to enrolls patients with COPD. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an experimental breathing therapy for adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) called CATCH (Capnometry- Assisted Training for COPD to slow the breath. CATCH is an experimental therapy that uses breathing exercises combined with computer feedback (including a breathing approach known as Buteyko). The Buteyko approach promotes smaller,slower breaths and nasal breathing to normalize carbon dioxide and relieve symptoms. Computer feedback is provided by a capnometer, a compact monitor that measures and displays breathing rate and carbon dioxide at the end of a breath. This device is not FDA-approved. We are studying this experimental therapy to see if it can relieve shortness of breath and other symptoms; regulate breathing chemistry; improve chest function and mobility; reduce fear and stress; prevent or manage a breathing crisis; or improve quality of life, physical activity levels, and exercise tolerance.