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← Return to Using the Smartvest
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I have been using the vest for two-plus years now. I nebulize first, then use an acapella device, then use the vest. It has been a couple of hours every day. I was a "low producer" as we are known in the field - still coughing a lot during the day and the night and not getting anything up. It was discouraging. But from this site, I got the idea to try some postural drainage techniques, and that has made a huge difference for me. I am getting all kinds of gunk out daily, hardly cough at all, and am nebulizing less. I will say that when I travelled, I did not bring the vest and I didn't feel any the worse for it. I am looking forward to seeing my pulmonologist to report these changes. It is wonderful to get snippets of time back!
Replies to "I have been using the vest for two-plus years now. I nebulize first, then use an..."
Thank you @pled. I find that the way you do it, nebulizing then using the Acapella also works best for me. Although it’s not saying much because I still bring up very little mucus. I was instructed to do the nebulizing first, Arikayce, vest and Acapella last. By that time I am dry as bone, not to mention exhausted. I think I’ll go back to what seems to work best for me. Also, please let me know where you found the postural drainage techniques.
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Maybe you can ask your pulmonologist whether you need to use the vest every day, or can alternate with postural drainage? Whatever you do, don't give up the airway clearance - I truly believe it is the "magic bullet" to keeping us as healthy as possible with bronchiectasis.
Sue