This is slightly a gross question but none the less an important one, over the past month I have had a lung infection (through bronchiectasis) not my COPD despite being on azithromycin 3 times a week. I have had co-amoxiclav twice and still feel unwell and a little breathless and obiously I am concenred what damage this infection might be causing left without treatment. Today I ask my doctors to have my Sputum tested to see what bacteria is causing me the problem and prescirbe me with the correct medication, so for the question.
I can pinpoint my infection preciously to the bottom of my right lung, what is the best method to get the sputum up from this area ? I do not have a flutter device. Normally I would go for a run and try and cough my lungs up on my return, however I feel to0 unwell to do this. I am concerened that unless I get a good sample from where the infection is that it might not contain any bacteria from the infected area and continue to do damage to my lungs and I will be misdiagnosed
I live on my own (apart from my cat so can make as many stupid noises as I like) just want to get it right. Also when is the best time to do this night/morning? The lady in the doctors tells me thaey collect the samples at 9.00am so need to get it in before then.
Thanks for your time in advance
Justin X
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jayspurs
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One of the best ways I know of shifting the gunk is breathing in salt in some sort of mist. I have a neb so it's easy for me. I haven't tried it or checked anywhere but maybe warm/steamy salt water in a bowl with a towel over your head may work ?
I believe the best sample would be first thing in the morning....I wonder if light percussion over the infected lung would help or the huffing technique .
I hope someone with a better knowledge of chest clearance can help...
Hi again, I googled and a couple of sites mentioned to take the sample before you eat or drink or clean your teeth. Just rinse or gargle with water to prevent contamination.
Breathe slowly right out as far as you can go. put your hands on each side of your chest and push at the end of the breath so that it feels as though you are vibrating.
Do this slowly and relaxed.
do not cough at this stage.
Repeat the breathing twice more
then cough.
Don't force it or you may hurt yourself.
If you can cough something up all well and good.
If nothing comes up repeat the process as many times as you need to. You should really be doing this every day to try to clear your lungs to prevent the bugs from multiplying.
I did subscribe to their 'Webinars', but as I am in the UK and the Webinars start at about 7pm US Eastern Time that makes it 12 mid-night here, I found it easier to watch them a bit later on YouTube. All good stuff though.
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