We sat down with Associate Professor Lissa Spencer and Senior Physiotherapist Jack Reeves share their expert insights and knowledge on airway clearance tips for bronchiectasis. Our speakers answer some of the most asked questions on this topic. Watch the video to hear more or read on below.
What is the Active Cycle of Breathing and huff technique?
Active Cycle of Breathing (ACBT) is a technique designed to help move mucus from deep in the lungs to higher up from where it can be easily coughed up. The technique consists of four parts:
- Deep breathing – this acts like a broom to sweep mucus from the deeper parts of the lungs up higher.
- Relaxed breathing – allows the small airways to return to normal width so that patient’s not getting too wheezy.
- Huff – moves mucus from high in the chest to the back of the throat
- Cough – from here it can be finally cough out.
Over-coughing will stop the mucus coming up and make you feel very tight in the chest so it’s very important to use this whole technique, not just cough. ACBT can be done in a number of positions which will depend on your lung condition. A respiratory physiotherapist will explain which position is best for you.
Do I need to be taught airway clearance for bronchiectasis by a physiotherapist?
It’s best to be taught the technique by a respiratory physiotherapist. They will need to listen to your chest as well as look at your CT and your chest x-rays, but also ask you some specific questions about what positions make you cough, and so on. This way you’ll have the most effective treatment for you.
How do airway clearance devices help move sputum from the lungs?
If you have a lot of sputum and need to do daily chest physio, a device can help improve the effectiveness of the treatment. Different devices work in different ways.
- PEP device: Helps to splint open the airways and remove pluggy mucus
- Flutter device: Help the cilia (the little hairs in the airways) to beat better and move the mucus more effectively.
Devices can help you focus on your treatment, so it’s easier for you. Never buy a device without getting help from a physiotherapist.
Does everyone need an airway clearance device?
No. Some people have a small amount of mucus that clears easily or mucus that is on and off during the year. For example people with COPD, asthma or bronchitis. If you have bronchiectasis you may benefit from a device because you will likely have a lot of mucus and daily airways clearance is an essential part of your management. Good airway clearance prevents frequent infections and keeps you out of hospital.
How does staying hydrated help bronchiectasis?
Staying hydrated is good for your overall health, but if you have a lung condition like bronchiectasis. If you’re dehydrated, the mucus in your lungs can dry out and become harder to clear.
What is a respiratory physiotherapist?
A respiratory physiotherapist is a physiotherapist who has experience in treating respiratory conditions such as bronchiectasis. They may work in the hospital wards, in pulmonary rehabilitation or even in a respiratory private practice.
How do I find a respiratory physiotherapist?
All physiotherapists will have learnt about airway clearance, but most physios will have become specialised over time and so it is always best to have an experienced respiratory physio teach you about airway clearance techniques. The best way to find a respiratory physio is to ask Lung Foundation Australia or to call the physiotherapy department at your closest hospital and ask for advice. You can also get a referral from your GP to come to see us in the hospital.
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