Brain zaps for breathlessness: tiny trial tests tDCS in COPD Flare-Ups
NCT ID NCT06944626
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This small study tested whether a painless brain stimulation technique called tDCS could reduce shortness of breath in people hospitalized with a COPD flare-up. Thirty participants received either real tDCS or a sham version, plus standard physiotherapy, over three days. Researchers measured breathing, lung function, and daily activity levels to see if the brain stimulation made a difference.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug way to help COPD patients feel less breathless during a flare-up.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early study with only 30 people. The results may not apply to everyone, and the effect might be small or not last long.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
İstinye Üniversitesi
Istanbul, Zeytinburnu, 08100, Turkey (Türkiye)
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