The ELTGOL breathing technique: Clearing phlegm faster
Treatments studied
Part of Lungs & breathing clinical trials.
This study tests whether inhaling a saltwater spray before a special breathing exercise (ELTGOL) helps people with bronchiectasis cough up phlegm more easily. It's for adults who have daily phlegm, recent flare-ups, and have not smoked much.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You have been diagnosed with bronchiectasis (widened airways in the lungs) via a CT scan.
- You have not had a flare-up (worsening of symptoms) in the last month.
- You cough up phlegm that is thick and yellow or green most days.
- You bring up at least 10 mL (about 2 teaspoons) of phlegm every day.
- You have had at least one flare-up in the last year.
- Your lung function test (FEV1) is at least 30% of normal after using a rescue inhaler.
- You are 18 or older and agree to take part.
- You do not currently smoke and have smoked fewer than 20 pack-years total.
- You do not have asthma, cystic fibrosis, or a certain lung allergy (ABPA).
- You are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have not used other phlegm-thinning treatments in the past month.
- You are able to do the ELTGOL breathing technique and spirometry tests.
- You have not done a formal pulmonary rehab program in the last 6 months.
- Your medications for bronchiectasis have not changed in the last month.
- You do not have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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