Clearing chest

[Eddiesname]

Hi I have trouble clearing my chest with flutter device , used to take me 15 mins now after over an hour it’s not completely clear. I have bronchiectasis and asthma. As well as heart problems, any ideas would be very welcome

[Jensmom]

Hi, I wish I did have any advice but I've never used a flutter device. Could you maybe tell me about them lol. I'm sorry it's not working as well but mAybe with the weather changing, depending on where you are, you could bump it up by using some mucinex or even good hot tea a bit before using the device. I'm sorry I'm no help. Hope it clears for you soon

[Eddiesname in reply to Jensmom]

Thanks for contacting me , the flutter device you deep breathe into it and it loosens the phlegm you do 5 breaths then you do huffing and back to flutter device , keep going until your chest is clear.I live in Yorkshire it’s beautiful but cold today supposed to get bettter from Thursday onwards once again thanks for contacting me

[sarcoid1234]

I have a lung condition (sarcoidosis) and produce a lot of phlegm every day. I wonder if the following would help you. To clear my lungs of phlegm every morning and before bed I do Active Cycle of Breathing technique (ACBT) - also known as huffing - which was taught to me by a physiotherapist to cough it up and then I don't cough during the day or when I lie down. If I don't do ACBT at nighttime I feel the need to cough when I lie down. There is lots on the internet, especially Youtube, teaching Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT). I was taught by a physiotherapist to do it lying down on each side but it can be done sitting up.

As your phlegm is loose I wouldn't think you need a nebuliser which loosens the phlegm. You have to be tested by a physiotherapist to see if you are suitable. They are not very expensive to buy.

Or you could put your head over a bowl of very hot water with a towel over your head to loosen the mucus which I used to do before I had my nebuliser.

I also have a Flutter device which I bought which helps if the phlegm occasionally gets stuck after I have done my ACBT. There is also a device called an acapella which is similar.

I never go anywhere without a packet of Fisherman's Friend (includes menthol and eucalyptus), as if I do feel the urge to cough I suck one (a very strong taste so takes some getting used to) and the urge usually disappears, but that may not be useful to you as you have so much phlegm.

One last thing. My phlegm is white, but I have been told that if it goes yellow or green that may mean I have an infection and I should ask my doctor's receptionist for a little pot, cough in to it (in private!), and the doctor will send it to the local hospital for analysis to know which is the best antibiotic to fight it.