PEP for asthma

[Evie3]

Morning. Due to being immunocompromised …on Rituximab infusion. I keep getting the same chest infection. Had three lots of antibiotics over 4 weeks. I was considering buying a PEP to try and keep my chest clear. Has anyone any advice on which to buy please? TIA

[peege]

Sorry, I cant work out what PEP means 😬

[Evie3 in reply to peege]

Lol….it means Positive Expiratory Pressure. Its a device which you blow into and the resistance agitates any mucus hanging around in your airways enabling you to cough it up.

[Lol1944 in reply to Evie3]

never heard of a pep but certainly for me I find that breathing into a handkerchief held tight to my mouth does what I think this device does. Maybe try it.

[TC770 in reply to Evie3]

they are great. $25 - 50 on Amazon.

[Shogi]

I feel for you! Rituximab is not an “asthma” drug, but generally used to treat certain specific cancers, so we don’t know what, or how complicated your health situation or history actually is. Being immunocompromised, especially with having Rituximab infusions, is obviously leaving you vulnerable to infections.

If you are on oral antibiotics and they are doing no good, then in your situation, sounds like you may need a course of IV antibiotics. However, only your Consultants or a sympathetic GP can get the ball rolling on this, and also sounds like you need advice from Specialist Respiratory Nurses, for advice on chest clearance techniques, as Pep devices tend to be expensive, and a waste of money if you find they do not work for you. They are not a Magic Wand, but are meant to help you clear mucus from your lungs - which can easily become infected if not cleared - and encourage better breathing techniques, but you really often need help with this, especially for chronic conditions.

Before you investigate buying any PEP devices, call the Helpline Team here on 0300 2225800 or WhatsApp on 07999 377 775 Monday-Friday 0915-5pm.

I wish you well for now and the future 👍

[Evie3 in reply to Shogi]

Thanks for your advice and info. I have Rituximab for RA. My asthma was always under control. Speaking to Dr soon.

[Shogi in reply to Evie3]

Got you. My Mum was on Methotrexate for RA due to Sjögrens Syndrome, so similar treatment to yours. Really hope you get good help from doctor and feel better soon. All best 👍

[Fruitandveg]

Sorry to hear you are struggling with infections. I have a PEP device & to be honest it didn’t help me much, instructions from the physio in breathing techniques gave the best results. The PEP has to be kept clean, another source of infection if you are not careful. I hope you feel better soon.

[Evie3 in reply to Fruitandveg]

thanks…have shelved that idea for now.

[Patk1]

U shld be able to get an aerobika on prescription.theyre a flutter device