Uncovering the symptom burden of persons with expiratory central airway collapse: a qualitative study

<bold>Background:</bold> Expiratory central airway collapse (ECAC) in adults is under-diagnosed most likely due to resemblance of or co-existence with other chronic lung diseases. No previous studies have described the symptoms of those with mild-moderate ECAC, and no knowledge exists of patients’ perspectives on their symptom burden. <bold>Aim:</bold> The aim of this study was to investigate the experienced symptom burden of persons with mild to moderate ECAC. <bold>Methods:</bold> The study had a qualitative approach based on descriptive phenomenology. Individual semi-structured interviews of persons with mild to moderate ECAC were performed until data saturation was obtained. Data was analysed with reflexive thematic analysis. <bold>Results:</bold> Nine persons participated. Cough was described as a manifold symptom with consequences on participants' social life. The labile nature of cough led to loss of control and frustration. Breathing difficulties resulted in hindered activities of daily living, and functional loss led to challenges with a changed identity. Tiredness entailed the need for prioritising energy use. Infections and fear hereof led to avoidance of social gatherings. See Figure 1. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Persons with mild to moderate ECAC experience a substantial and faceted symptom burden. This study provides health professionals with valuable knowledge to identify patients and recognise their condition. <fig><object-id>erj;66/suppl_69/PA5574/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>