Evaluation of Nitric Oxide in Patients Experiencing a COPD Exacerbation

What we are studying

The purpose of this research study is to determine whether exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) goes up during an acute exacerbation of COPD and whether the level of exhaled nitric oxide returns to normal in the weeks after an exacerbation. Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) is a naturally occurring gas made in your lungs that can be measured and provides information about the level of inflammation (redness, swelling, and irritation) in your lungs. FeNO is often higher in people with asthma or other types of breathing problems. FeNO is measured with a medical device called the NIOX MINO®. The NIOX MINO® device has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in children and adults age 7 and older to measure Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) in human breath.

Who we are studying

• Men and Women
• Races:
  • White
  • African American
  • Asian
  • American Indian or Alaska Native
  • Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
  • Other
• All Ethnicities
• Ages 40+

Eligibility Criteria

• Smoking history of 20 or more packs per year
• COPD exacerbation requiring:
  • Antibiotics
  • Steroids
  • Or hospitalization

What is involved

• Participation will last 8 weeks
• 4 visits: 1 visit during the COPD exacerbation; 3 follow-up visits

Compensation:

$50 gift card at the end of visit 4

Contact Information

Study Coordinator

Karamie Bringolf

Email

kbringol@wakehealth.edu

Phone

336-716-0181