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use of aerobika long term and vest
Hi everyone,
I have a big decision to make. I have a smartvest for less than 2 months, it seems to do nothing for me. I stopped using it. But I think it has to do something. It is handy to have in case I need to use it. But I have to pay about $1500 out of pocket. So it seems to me to return it now and buy it again if in the future I do decide to try again. My question to you is, when you are weak, do you still have the strength to use aerobika? Aerobika and nebulizer help me better now. I just don't know if there is a day that I don't have the strength to use aerobika. Based on the people in the support group, there are some healthy and strong 80 year old people still using aerobika. Your input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks and take care!
Ling
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@picartist The NJH, National Jewish Hospital/Clinic, doctor indicated to me that one may not bring up much mucus during the routine session but will often later in the day, after having done the morning nebulizing, with being active etc.
Movement of the body during the day especially if one bends and raises while doing things helps, if one doesn't have a problem with the lungs when one bends over. Not everyone can bend over due to certain conditions with the lungs or acid reflux.
The important thing is that you feel you are bringing up the mucus. It could eventually work more for you in the nebulizing session also.
What do you mean by "damage" in the lower lung?
Barbara
@blm1007blm1007 left lower lobe has holes, damage, etc. Not sure what the medical name is but if you look at a diagram of the lung look at the left bottom area, that is where my Pulmonologist showed me where it was and said the vest may help get mucus out of there.
@picartist I do percussion on myself with cupped hands on my chest/lungs, staying on the sides of my breast bone, and go all the way up to just below the end of my neck. There is a sweet spot just below the end of our neck that makes a difference with helping getting the mucus out.
I also bend my arms at my elbows and do my back area by 'pounding' with my fists at the side of my spine. I go up and down as far as I can with my arms/fists to help move the mucus.
The vest helps some, I just didn't like that it pounded at my stomach and heart. The doctors said that was no big deal, I just didn't want that for myself. They need to customize the vests, but that would be even more money.
I also do postural drainage, making sure I have not had anything to eat for a good 2 and 1/2 hours before doing postural drainage due to possible LPR/GORD/GERD. All related to possible acid reflux.
Drinking warm water sips does help...again if you do not have acid reflux. Otherwise the 2 and 1/2 hour rule applies from what I understand.
For me keeping myself hydrated makes a big difference also.
I will try to call John today and hope he is in to talk.
Barbara
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1 Reaction@picartist I have a call into John. Hope he will call. I'll keep you informed.
Barbara
I am 75 and have used a Respirtech compression vest twice a day while using my nebulizer inhalation meds for the past six years. I also stay active. I am fortunate that Medicare covers the cost of the machine. As far as efficacy, I just know that when I stop using the vest, more mucus builds up.
I have been using the Respirtech vest for almost a year. It took about 6-8 months for me to see a difference. I definitely helps me get rid of mucus. I am active, doing yoga at least 3x a week. I feel good!😊