Airway Clearance Techniques | Respiratory Health

Airway clearance techniques are used to remove mucus and secretions from the airways to improve breathing and prevent respiratory complications.

Airway Clearance FAQ

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What is airway clearance therapy?

Airway clearance therapy (ACT) is a set of techniques designed to help individuals with respiratory conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), clear mucus and secretions from their lungs. The goal is to improve lung function and reduce the risk of infection.

What are airway clearance techniques?

Airway clearance techniques (ACT) are a group of therapies that are used to help clear secretions, improve ventilation, and strengthen the respiratory muscles.

Why should you use an airway clearance device?

Airway clearance devices can also help prevent complications of respiratory diseases, such as lung infections. You can use an airway clearance device along with your other treatments, including medications and airway clearance techniques.

Can airway clearance help a patient with a respiratory infection?

Respiratory infections are a common complication in patients with lung conditions. This is because mucus buildup in the lungs provides a breeding ground for bacteria. By clearing the mucus, patients are less likely to develop respiratory infections. In addition, airway clearance therapy can help improve gas exchange.

What is airway clearance?

This is a term that may be used to cover lots of different ways that you may be taught to clear sputum out of your lungs. May also be referred to as ‘Chest Clearance’, ‘Breathing Exercises’ or ‘Breathing Techniques’, ‘physio’ or ‘physiotherapy’. There are several different types of airway clearance techniques.

What are the different types of airway clearance techniques?

May also be referred to as ‘Chest Clearance’, ‘Breathing Exercises’ or ‘Breathing Techniques’, ‘physio’ or ‘physiotherapy’. There are several different types of airway clearance techniques. You may find that one works better than another, or is more convenient for you.

How to clear airways naturally?

It is the easiest procedure to clear airways, which help to release the mucus secretions in a healthy and natural way. Basically coughing helps in secreting the mucus from large airways but for the small airways coughing should be done with other airways clearance techniques (ACTs).

Which bronchodilator is best for airway clearance?

Airway clearance is most effective when used in combination with your inhalers or nebulisers. It is advisable to use your bronchodilator (also known as a reliever which is usually blue in colour e.g Salbutamol, Ventolin) about 10 to 15 minutes before you try to clear your secretions.