Multidimensional Study of Dyspnea at Rest, During Exertion, Self-induced Through a Virtual Realit… (NCT07568379) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Multidimensional Study of Dyspnea at Rest, During Exertion, Self-induced Through a Virtual Reality Scenario, and Its Placebo Effect in Patients With COPD and Control Subjects.
Spain80 participantsStarted 2026-04
Plain-language summary
This quasi-experimental laboratory study aims to describe and compare the multidimensional experience of dyspnea at rest and during exertion in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and healthy controls. The study integrates neurophysiological, somatosensory, and psychological assessments, including prefrontal cortex activity (fNIRS), quantitative sensory testing (QST), and immersive virtual reality (VR) scenarios.
Additionally, the study evaluates the modulation of dyspnea perception through expectation mechanisms and placebo intervention using high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC). The ultimate goal is to better understand the multidimensional and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying dyspnea.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
COPD:
* Diagnosed COPD (FEV1/FVC \< 0.7 post-bronchodilator)
* GOLD stage 2-4
* Clinically stable
* Signed informed consent
Healthy subjects:
* Normal pulmonary function
* No chronic diseases
* Non-smoker or long-term ex-smoker
Exclusion Criteria:
COPD patients:
* Severe cardiac, neurological, or psychiatric disease
* Other respiratory diseases
* Recent exacerbation
* Use of ventilatory support (except CPAP)
Heatlhy subjects:
* Respiratory symptoms
* Recent infections
* Medication affecting respiratory function
* Substance abuse
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Dyspnea intensity and respiratory effort
Timeframe: At baseline and immediately after reaching target dyspnea level (Borg scale ≥5)