Wearable Devices for Respiratory Monitoring

Respiratory diseases are currently monitored through traditional pulmonary function tests, such as spirometry. However, the restrictions of these procedures, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, have underscored the need for alternative approaches to respiratory health assessment. Wearable devices have emerged as a promising solution, providing continuous data collection, and overcoming the limitations posed by conventional methods. This review explores the multifaceted field of wearable devices for respiratory monitoring, presenting the most common sensing technologies applied to pulmonary ventilation, their constituent materials, fabrication techniques, and diverse morphologies to enhance sensor performance. The role of machine learning algorithms and ethical data sharing is highlighted, contributing to the forthcoming patient-centered healthcare landscape. Ultimately, the importance of validation and calibration protocols for wearable devices is underlined. In anticipation of evolving healthcare needs, this in-depth study addresses the current challenges in wearable respiratory monitoring while laying a robust foundation for a personalized, connected, and ethically sound future for respiratory care.