Coughing up phlegm
Does anybody cough up a lot of phlegm? My Dr sent me to the lab to do a sputum test. I finally managed to get a tiny amount up. Does anybody else have this problem?
Yes, I am constantly clearing my throat and coughing up phlegm. It’s usually clear or white and very thick! I hate it because sometimes it’s hard to get out! If I don’t get it all up and out then I’m constantly clearing my throat!
Hi. Thank you for your response to 's question. I'm curious -- do you have an Acapella or some similar device to help you bring up those thick secretions. I usually offer these to my patients and they seem to benefit greatly from them. Here is an article if you are interested (https://copd.net/clinical/flutter-valves-acapellas). Wishing you all the best. John. community moderator.
No I don't have one. Is that something that my Doctor would have to write a prescription for?
Hey John, I've seen Acapella and other flutter valves and incentive spirometers on Amazon. In the past, I've shared links to those products here. Are these different from the ones you say are prescription only? Thanks for looking into this for us. 😀 -Melissa, team member Great qustion. No, a doctor's order is not required to purchase an Acapella or Flutter valve for home use. Different companies produce various models, and most should work equally well. As you mentioned, these devices are readily available over-the-counter at medical supply stores and online, including on Amazon. It's perfectly fine to buy them this way. However, a doctor's recommendation can be helpful to ensure the patient selects the most appropriate device for their needs. If insurance coverage is desired, a prescription from a doctor may be necessary. I hope this helps. John. community moderator.
Hi.
Thank you for your post here. It has started a nice discussion. I am curious -- how did your sputum test turn out? Did you get your results back yet? Wishing you all the best. John. community moderator. No I haven't gotten the test results back yet. I don't have an appointment with my Dr until Oct 1st. The lab tech told me that the test he wanted would take 6 to 8 weeks to do. I've got my fingers crossed that everything turns out good. Thank you for asking.
