Tuning into Cough in Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis, described as an “emerging global epidemic”, currently affects 350,000 to 500,000 people in the U.S and is increasing in prevalence.1 It arises from chronic airway inflammation that is driven by persistent infection resulting in irreversible structural changes. It should not be confused with bronchitis which is often temporary. The ensuing self-sustaining cycle of infection […]
Tuning into Cough in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
IPF is chronic lung disease characterized by progressive and irreversible scarring of the lung interstitial tissue. As the scarring worsens it leads to deterioration in pulmonary function and eventually respiratory failure. Historically, IPF trials and treatments have focused on pulmonary function, however, regulators are increasingly asking sponsors to focus on the symptoms that matter most […]
Tuning into Cough & Wheeze in Asthma
Affecting nearly 339 million people worldwide, asthma is the most common chronic condition in childhood and is responsible for over 1000 deaths a day, of which the majority are preventable.1 It poses a substantial burden on society and healthcare systems with prevalence and disease burden continuing to rise.2 In the US alone, medical costs for […]
COPD Lung Sounds: An Overview & What They Mean
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a combination of chronic bronchitis and emphysema that affects the respiratory system, can lead to certain adventitious (or abnormal) lung sounds often associated with exacerbations. While these sounds may be alarming, they are predictable in indicating airflow obstruction, lung fluid, and other problems of the lungs. Whether a stethoscope or […]