Stronger With Every Breath:
Airway ClearanceClearing your airways is one of the most important things you can do every day. These routines help move mucus out of your lungs, reduce inflammation, and make breathing easier. Just like brushing your teeth, it’s all about building it into your daily rhythm.
There are lots of airway clearance techniques (ACTs) out there, and you might already use a mix, depending on how you’re feeling and what your schedule looks like. Some of the most common ones include:
Chest physiotherapy (CPT): Think of this as manual percussion, clapping on the chest and back to loosen mucus. It can be done with a caregiver or a device.
Vest (HFCWO): This high-frequency chest wall oscillation device vibrates your chest to help shake loose mucus. You can even do other things while it works!
PEP devices (like the Acapella or Aerobika): These create back pressure when you exhale, helping keep airways open and moving mucus out.
Breathing techniques (like ACBT or autogenic drainage): These require a bit of practice but can be really effective. A respiratory therapist can help you learn them.
Nebulizers: Meds like hypertonic saline or dornase alfa can thin out mucus, making it easier to clear.
Pairing exercise with airway clearance is often a win-win. For example, doing a gentle walk after a nebulizer treatment can help get things moving. You can even use light activity, like yoga or a stationary bike, as part of your clearance strategy. The more routine it becomes, the easier it is to stick with.
Before making any changes, always check in with your CF care team.
Learn more about the AffloVest giveaway as part of BreatheStrong+.