Hi everyone. Just a query to ask if anyone can help me with the small hand machine that my Physio is recommending me to buy. It is called a Flutter and there are two types. One with a small ballbearing which seems to need a lot of care and washing out with distilled vinegar and the other which can be boiled. Can anyone who has used them give me advice on which is the best. I am told that they cost in the region of £40. but enables you to get rid of the phlegm much easier.
The vest is what it says it is but as it costs between £2000 and £4000 that is out for me. Is it correct that buying from your hospital enables you to buy the flutter without paying VAT? Would be grateful for any help.
Also I get through the sinusitis which I have too, a terrible smell in my nose which I forgot to ask my consultant about. Any comments on this Please?
Thanks. From greenlane - a fellow sufferer!
Hi Greenlane,
I'm sorry I cannot be of much help to you as I have never used either. But I feel whichever one you choose, will really help you to move the muck. I would probably go for one the Physio recommends. But as to which one, why don't you ask your local Pharmacist for the merits and downfalls of both of them. Either one will make clearing out the gunk a lot easier.
Let me know how you get on and which one you choose.
Someone who uses the Flutter may read your post and be able to give you more information.
Tessa
My flutter was free from the physio check before you pay for it i think you should get it for free also
You can buy a flutter device reasonably cheaply through the internet. I got one for £39 from Bear Street Pharmacy in Devon. I have used it for some months and found it useful in loosening sputum so that you can cough it up more easily. It is a white plastic device with a metal ball inside that vibrates when you breathe into it. It is easy to clean and simple to use.
I also use the breathing exercise I was shown at physiotherapy, which has a similar effect. Basically it consists in breathing out deeply but slowly through your mouth as far as you can (i.e. further than normal), and doing this several times, listening for the gurgling sound which indicates sputum being loosened. When you feel an irresistible urge to cough, cough up the sputum. Try not to cough if it is \"unproductive\" - i.e. if it doesn't bring up sputum.