Testing positive pressure breathing help for ALS cough strength

This study is testing a breathing assistance device called an in-exsufflator, which helps people with ALS cough by applying gentle pressure changes through a mask. The trial is specifically looking at whether adding positive expiratory pressure (a gentle outward pressure during the pause phase) makes the treatment work better at clearing airway secretions and reducing pneumonia risk.

ALS gradually weakens the muscles used for coughing, making it harder for people to clear mucus and secretions from their lungs. This can lead to serious lung infections. While breathing assistance devices help, they don't work well for everyone, especially those with certain types of ALS affecting swallowing and speech. This trial is testing whether adding a specific pressure adjustment could help more patients benefit from this life-saving therapy.