Objective cough reflex sensitivity testing is typically restricted to specialized research laboratories due to reliance on expensive dosimeter-controlled aerosol delivery systems. This study evaluates the feasibility and reliability of a low-cost alternative method using a handheld nebulizer for citric acid cough challenge testing. Healthy adult participants will complete cough reflex sensitivity testing using both a standard dosimeter-controlled nebulizer system (Cosmed QuarkSpiro) and a handheld nebulizer (DeVilbiss 45). The study will compare cough threshold outcomes between methods to determine whether handheld nebulizer-based testing produces comparable and reproducible measurements.
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Test-retest reliability of the concentration of citric acid that elicits two or more coughs (C2)
Timeframe: Cough sensitivity testing to determine cough thresholds (C2) will be performed at each of four weekly study visits, with visits occurring every 7 days across a 4-week study period.
Test-retest reliability of the concentration of citric acid that elicits five or more coughs (C5)
Timeframe: Cough sensitivity testing to determine cough thresholds (C5) will be performed at each of four weekly study visits, with visits occurring every 7 days across a 4-week study period.