I would like to hear from anyone who uses a flutter to help clear their lungs.

Chest and lungs
1

I am thinking of buying one. Any help in knowing which ones work best would be appreciated. Thank you, Stella

2

Hi Stella,

If you are in England you should be able to get one through your doctor.

My specialist team at the hospital, referred me to physio' arranged through my doctor and a lady came to see me, showed me the breathing techniques and brought a flutter for me, and showed me how to use it.

It takes a little practice to get the ball inside to bounce, I find if I am on my own I can concentrate and get it just right. But I couldn't have done it without the help from the physio' lady who was so very good.

There is no need to 'go it alone'...

Blessings,

Lesley

3

Hi Stella, I'm amazed that you are thinking of buying a flutter.  How do you know about them?  Your Consultant or Doctor should refer you to a physio who will show you how to use it, there is a knack, don't put the flutter in your mouth just rest it on your lips and tilt the flutter up slightly and blow, the ball should bounce up and 'rattle' and force air into your lungs to help relieve any congestion.  I am just finishing Pulmonary Rehab. and we have been taught a really good technique for clearing your chest with 'diaphragm' breathing and gently 'huffing'.  Good luck and take care.  Lizzy.

4

Thanks for the info Lesley. I will make an appointment to see my doctor and take it from there. Thanks, Stella

5

Thanks Liz for the info. I am suprised that the Consultant at the chest clinic has never mentioned it to me over the years. Not sure if I would still do posteral drainage as well, or whether this will replace it, but will check it out now I know about it.  I will refer to your technique when I get one. Thanks again, Stella

6

Hi Stella, me again, you could still do postural drainage but what about trying the breathing technique I was telling you about - here goes -

1.  Breathe through your nose and feel your tummy rise - breathe out - repeat 2 or 3 times;

2.  Take 2 deep breaths to open up your airways;

3.   Back to breathing control - make your tummy rise - breathe out - repeat 2 or 3 times;

4.  Take a long squeezy huff - keep mouth open and huff slowly - don't cough;

5.  Back to breathing control - as 1 and 3;

6.  As 4 but huff out quickly - try not to cough just yet;

7.  Back to breathing control - as 1, 3, and 5;

8.  Cough and then regain control of your breathing.

This is a slightly condensed version of the paperwork I have but the actions are the same.  Good luck and keep in touch.  Lizzy164.

7. 

7

Thanks for taking the time to write this out Liz.  Thing is that I was told something like this years ago but had forgotten the correct procedure. I do drainage each day, just before lunch when my stomach is empty. I tip upside down from the sofa, a nice height for me. I read a mag. take deep breaths and the sputum just seems to come out by it's self. Now you have remined me of the correct breathing technique, I will try and get into it as I feel it may get more out at the time. Stella