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DiscussionIs it worth buying an OPEP device for sputum clearance for COPD?
COPD: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | Last Active: Jul 7, 2022 | Replies (8)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I use both the Aerobika and the Acapella devices. I haven't tried the AirPhysio. To me,..."
Hi Sue,
Thank you for sharing your experience. And thank you for asking about my history.
I was diagnosed with MAC in 2005 at the age of 43. I have been on antibiotic treatment 3 times for MAC, stopping when sputum cultures were negative and starting again when cultures were positive. I am currently on holiday and would like to stay clear for an extended period of time. I did not hear the diagnosis "bronchiectasis" until (about) 3 years ago, although I certainly had it all along. I use a Smart Vest once per day, with huff coughing, and most days nebulize 3% saline twice. As with most patients, some days are very productive and other days not so much.
I work full time at a desk job and find all the activities to manage the disease and the sterilization of the nebulizer parts very time consuming. I understand the importance of exercise and try to work it in each day along with meal prep and other household chores. It is challenging to prioritize my health over some of the other demands and difficult to get buy-in since I don't look sick. Again, likely very typical of MAC/Bronch patients.
Thank you,
Melissa