Airway secretion clearance therapy

Airway Secretion Clearance Therapy: Everything You Need To Know

Airway secretion clearance therapy, also known as cough assistance or airway clearance therapy, is a form of medical treatment used to help remove excess mucus from the airways. It is most often used in patients who have respiratory diseases or conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or asthma. Airway clearance therapy can be used in both adults and children, depending on the severity of the patient's condition.

Airway secretion clearance therapy works by breaking up the mucus that builds up in the lungs and chest. This mucus-clearing effect is achieved by using a variety of techniques, such as chest physical therapy, forced expiratory technique, positive expiratory pressure (PEP) masks, and airway oscillators. Each of these treatments works to mobilize the thickened mucus and help it move more easily from the lungs.

Benefits of Airway Secretion Clearance Therapy

Airway secretion clearance therapy can improve symptoms in those who suffer from cystic fibrosis, COPD, and other chronic respiratory conditions. Benefits from the treatment often include improved airway clearance, reduced mucus accumulation, and improved lung function. In addition, patients may feel relief from chest congestion and experience an improvement in the quality of their breathing.

Side Effects of Airway Secretion Clearance Therapy

Airway secretion clearance therapy is generally safe and rarely has any serious side effects. Depending on the technique used, the patient may experience slight discomfort or pain. The most common side effects include difficulty breathing, chest tightness, lightheadedness, and nausea. It's important to talk to a doctor before beginning airway secretion clearance therapy to discuss any potential risks or side effects.

Overview of Airway Secretion Clearance Therapy Techniques

The following are some of the most commonly used airway secretion clearance techniques:

• Chest physical therapy: This technique involves clapping or vibrating the chest with cupped hands to loosen mucus and help it move from the lungs.
• Forced expiratory technique: With this technique, a person breathes quickly and forcefully to move mucus from the lungs.
• Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) masks: These masks provide air pressure that helps move mucus from the lungs.
• Airway oscillators: These devices oscillate air pressure to help loosen mucus in the lungs.