Discussions
Discussions
time spent clearing airways
Hi. My diagnosis is mild bronchiectasis. Typically I have to clear airways every 4 to 5 days. But it takes me up to 3 hours to clear airways start to finish. From what I read on this blog, I am slow! Currently steaming for 15 minutes, nebulizing with saline for 15 minutes, postural drainage on one side in 2 positions each about 15-30 minutes with huff coughing which clears that side of my lungs Then back to a little steam, 10-15 more minutes of nebulizing, and then the other side with 2 postures and huff coughs for another 15-30 minutes. There has to be a better way. I've had a lot of recent flares so I am doing this every day to every other day lately. Please advise.
KB
Replies
Hello! You are in the process of learning what works best for you- it takes time to get into a practice that works best for you. Steam is not recommended for BNTM individuals. We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you receive here on BronchiectasisandNTM360, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly by phone at (833) 411-5864. Our Ambassadors are real-life patients with experiences similar to yours and understand what you are going through. You can also email us at contactus@bronchandntm.org to get more information about airway clearance. Our Ambassadors can’t provide medical advice, but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources on airway clearance techniques.
If you scroll upwards, to the right and look for the Learn More Menu for additional information, including: Coping with Airway Mucus | Bronchiectasis and NTM Association
Comments
KB,
I wish you the best! 1:1 coaching with a respiratory therapist is definitely worthwhile. I hope that you can get a less time consuming but effective airway clearance program in place soon.
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