A significant number of people with COPD suffer with excessive sputum. This can build up in airways, causing a number of symptoms including breathless, increased risk of infection and cough. With support from Respiratory innovation Wales (RIW), Carwyn Bridges is currently recruiting to a trial comparing Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) and Breathing exercises that includes meaningful outcomes for people suffering with COPD. The trial aims to start answering such questions as:

• Will using an OPEP device mean I cough less and need to visit the GP less?

• Am I less likely to need to go to hospital if I clear my chest regularly?

• Is using an OPEP device easy and effective?

The trial will also look at peoples experiences of living with excess sputum and how they feel about having to clear their chest regularly. It is hoped through this trial that it will bring to life people’s real experiences and inform innovative solutions through research.