Understanding Shortness of Breath in COPD Using Virtual Reality
Part of Lungs & breathing clinical trials.
This study explores why people with COPD experience shortness of breath at rest, during activity, and in virtual-reality scenarios. Researchers will also test whether expecting to feel better (placebo effect) actually helps reduce breathing difficulty.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You have a diagnosis of COPD with confirmed airway obstruction (FEV1/FVC ratio below 0.7 after using a bronchodilator)
- Your COPD is classified as moderate to very severe (GOLD stage 2–4)
- Your COPD symptoms have been stable for at least several weeks (no recent flare-ups)
- You do not have serious heart, brain, or mental health conditions that would make study participation unsafe
- You are not currently using a ventilator to help you breathe (CPAP machines are okay)
- You can sign an informed consent form showing you understand and agree to participate
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
Similar studies
Other trials that look related to this one.
This study tests a virtual (online) pulmonary rehabilitation program for people with COPD. If you join, you will participate in exercises and education from home, with remote support from the study team.
This trial tests a digital breathing training program for people with moderate to severe COPD. It aims to help strengthen your breathing muscles using a high-intensity device, which may improve your ability to breathe and feel better day to day.
This study tests if virtual reality combined with physical and mental tasks can improve muscle oxygen levels in people with COPD. It aims to find a more engaging way to help you exercise and feel better.
This trial tests whether using a virtual reality headset can help reduce shortness of breath (dyspnea) while patients in the ICU are being taken off a breathing machine. If you are ready to start the weaning process, you may be able to participate.
This study tests whether using an immersive virtual reality headset changes how hard you breathe during exercise on a stationary bike. It is for healthy adults aged 18–40 to explore if VR can make exercise feel easier.
This trial tests whether adding virtual reality (VR) to your regular pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve your muscle function, exercise tolerance, and shortness of breath. You would experience both standard rehab and rehab with VR, in a random order, to see which works better for you.
Hear when a new COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) trial opens
We’ll email you when one opens — at most once a week, no account needed, unsubscribe anytime.