I was recently hospitalized with pneumonia along with my COPD. Getting rid of mucus/phlegm is always very difficult for me. Once discharged home, I had home health care. The PT and OT was beneficial, but not necessary long term. The nurses are still coming twice a week. I was on antibiotics four different times, and my lungs were still junky. When they stressed the importance of using my acapella and my incentive spirometer, I followed their advice. Finally, I was able to clear my throat and lungs of that nasty thick phlegm. I'm almost back to where I was before the pneumonia, but I am going to continue using these devices. I believe they, along with the meds and nursing care, are a large part of my recovery.

I use a Smartvest to help me cough up mucus. You can ask your doctor to see if it would help you.
https://smartvest.com/

Bronchiectasis Airway Clearance Therapy | SmartVest

https://smartvest.com/

when my children were kids they used to tap on my back to help me breathe,I still remember their help! I had staff while I was in the hospital tapping my back as I laid almost upside down on a special bed ,so when I got home I had pillows under me to try my best to bring an upside down position as best as I could and it did help!

You are a god sent thank you need to drink more water

Hi, @A MyCOPDTeam Member -

Are you staying hydrated enough?

Are you drinking warm liquids (hot cocoa, tea, warmed pineapple juice)?

You need to get the mucus up and out, and the best way to do that is to stay hydrated, as it loosens the congestion, as well as to cough it up and out to help clear your congestion.

You know what to look for in terms of colors, right? If not, please see the chart in the photo. Anything in the yellow through green means an active infection, and you should check in with your doc in case you need an antibiotic.

If you don’t already use it, please consider a Saline spray or mist rinse like Ocean or Simply Saline brands to help clear the congestion or any mucus plugs.

Good luck !

Thursday evening, 09-JAN-25

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