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Real members of MyCOPDTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What can I do to help cough up the flime

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Colbert, GA
July 16
 · 
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A MyCOPDTeam Member

AI answered that pretty well. Staying hydrated is first and foremost. If it is thick you're not drinking enough water. I also drink some hot mullein tea everyday to help season it. Mucinex will also help. But talk with your doctor about this.
When stuck I will use my AerobikA, a flutter device my pulmonologist gave me when I had troubles with stuck phlegm. I will sometimes do a nebulizer treatment then the AerobikA. He also told me when it gets worse will need a procession vest. Till then sometimes someone doing cupping or pounding on your back up and down your lungs will help loosen it up also.

July 17
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Ask your Pulmonologist for a script of singular, it breaks up the phlegm and ask him for a flutter to blow into a few times a day, he should just be able to give you one.

August 9
MyCOPDTeam

Dealing with mucus (phlegm) buildup is a common challenge with COPD. There are several things that can help loosen and clear it more easily.

Here are some helpful tips:

- Stay well hydrated — drinking plenty of water helps thin out mucus, making it easier to cough up
- Try hot beverages like tea, which can help relax and Show Full Answer

Dealing with mucus (phlegm) buildup is a common challenge with COPD. There are several things that can help loosen and clear it more easily.

Here are some helpful tips:

- Stay well hydrated — drinking plenty of water helps thin out mucus, making it easier to cough up
- Try hot beverages like tea, which can help relax and open your airways
- Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air, which can loosen mucus
- Practice breathing techniques like pursed lip breathing or diaphragmatic (belly) breathing to help move air and mucus through your lungs
- Ask your doctor about a nebulizer with a flutter device — this combination can be especially effective at loosening and clearing chest congestion It's always a good idea to let your doctor know if mucus buildup is getting worse or changing color, as that can sometimes signal a flare-up that may need treatment. They can help adjust your plan if needed. 😊

July 16

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