Many people with
COPD suffer from an
increased mucus production which can build up and block the airways. The pooling of mucus also becomes a breeding ground for bacteria which can lead to lung infections like
pneumonia.
Learning how to clear mucus from the lungs can be a arduous task, and certainly one that may not ascertain immediate results. But, airway clearance is an important part of COPD treatment, especially because it can help you breathe better.
Here are some important airway clearance techniques that are simple yet effective:
Often coupled with chest physiotherapy, postural drainage is an airway clearance technique that uses gravity to assist in the removal of secretions from the airways. There are at least 12 different positions in which postural drainage is performed, depending upon which area of the lungs you are trying to concentrate on.
What is Postural Drainage?
How to Perform Postural Drainage
Expectorants are a type of cough medicine that help loosen the mucus in your lungs making your cough more productive. Expectorants are available both over the counter and by prescription.
What is an Expectorant?
Robitussin
Mucinex
Mucolytics help thin out thick mucus in the airways making it easier to cough up. According to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), however, mucolytic drugs are not part of the current standard of care for COPD patients. But, some doctors still prescribe them and many COPD patients feel that they work well. Mucolytics are also available over the counter or by prescription from your doctor.
Video: How Mucolytic Drugs Work
Definition of Mucolytics
Mucomyst - A Type of Mucolytic
