Abstract: Described herein are passive nasal respiratory devices, in particular, passive nasal respiratory devices configured to achieve positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in a subject wearing the device. PEEP devices may have a threshold pressure for opening during expiration. These devices may include a flap valve that opens on inhalation nested with a spring valve that opens when exhalation pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The device may be configured to be comfortably worn by a sleeping subject.

Abstract: Devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical disorders, including snoring and sleep apnea. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed in both nostrils to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. The nasal devices may also increases patency of the nares. Any of these devices may be configured to achieve positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in a subject wearing the device.

Abstract: Described herein are passive nasal respiratory devices, in particular, passive nasal respiratory devices configured to achieve positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in a subject wearing the device. PEEP devices may have a threshold pressure for opening during expiration. These devices may include a flap valve that opens on inhalation nested with a spring valve that opens when exhalation pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The device may be configured to be comfortably worn by a sleeping subject.

Abstract: Described herein are nasal respiratory devices, in particular, nasal respiratory devices configured to achieve positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in a subject wearing the device. PEEP devices may have a threshold pressure for opening during expiration. In some variations, these devices have a threshold pressure for closing during expiration.

Abstract: Described herein are nasal devices. In particular, layered nasal respiratory devices are described. Layered nasal device may include a layered airflow resistor that is configured to resist airflow in a first direction more than airflow in a second direction and that includes a flap valve adjacent to a flap valve limiting layer and an adhesive holdfast layer that is configured to secure the layered airflow resistor in communication with the subject's nasal cavity. Methods of using and methods of assembling layered nasal device are also described.

Abstract: Described herein are nasal devices, including nasal devices formed in layers having four or fewer layers. In some variations, the nasal devices include a single integrated layer from which the flap of the airflow resistor is formed as well as the base of the holdfast region. The nasal devices may include a single aligner or rim body on the side of the device facing the subject. The aligner may protect the airflow resistor, and may help center or position the nasal device. In some variations, these nasal devices may include a noise-reduction feature. Also described herein are systems, devices and methods for determining if a passive nasal respiratory device having an airflow resistor configured to inhibit exhalation more than inhalation has been worn by a subject, and thereby confirming compliance.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and kits for enhancing breathing in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease are described. The methods and apparatus rely on increasing flow resistance to expiration in a manner which mimics “pursed lip” breathing which has been found to benefit patients suffering from this disease. In a first example, a device is implanted in a trachea or bronchial passage to increase flow resistance, preferably selectively increase resistance to expiration relative to inspiration. In a second embodiment, a mouthpiece is provided, again to increase resistance to expiration, preferably with a lesser increase in flow resistance to inspiration. In a third embodiment, the patient's trachea or bronchial passage is modified by the application of energy in order to partially close the lumen therethrough.