National Jewish Health generally does not recommend postural drainage due to the risk of reflux. During a project I was working on, I consulted a respiratory therapist who was a supervisor at NJH at the time. She emphasized that because of reflux concerns, they only suggest airway clearance techniques performed in an upright position.

However, at the most recent NJH patient conference, Dr. Lommatzsch, a bronchiectasis expert and head of the CF clinic, mentioned that postural drainage might be an option for individuals without reflux issues.

In my experience, I struggled to expel mucus for a year and a half until I started using postural drainage. Fortunately, I was tested with the dual channel pH impedance test and don’t have significant reflux issues. Just the same, I ensure there’s enough time between meals and airway clearance sessions to reduce the risk.

When I am concerned about potential reflux, I use an alginate or follow Dr. Huitt’s suggestion of eating a piece of bread. Carbohydrates can absorb stomach fluids, helping to reduce the chance of refluxate reaching the esophagus.

Happy Sunday,
Linda Esposito