Excess Pleghm

[GXTrex]

My Dad (PALS) does not take anything in by mouth. He takes an OTC medication (guaifenesin) to help breakdown phlegm as well as a prescription medication to reduce saliva.

The Saliva seems to be under control but the phlegm is still a problem. He goes back and forth between the cough assist and suction machine but he gets uncomfortable. It can take a while for it to come out while he struggles to cough and gags on the phlegm.

What else can we do? He currently does not use an NIV.

 

[GXTrex]

Does anyone else have this problem??? I want to make sure I covered all my bases before telling him that there is nothing we can do to help

 

[Nikki J]

Sorry you have this issue. It is not uncommon. Do a search here and see if there is something you haven’t tried. Aside from what you have done and hydration pineapple juice is helpful but may be bad for the tube

 

[GXTrex]

Pineapple juice through a PEG helps with phlegm? How is it bad for a tube and would mixing it with water help?

I spoke to a nurse about a humidifier. He said he doesnt think it helps much. Do PALS here say it helped?

 

[Nikki J]

Humidifiers aren’t going to be a miracle but still worth doing. A little help is better than none. I think pineapple is supposed to help because of an enzyme but I have heard of damage to the tube. That your dad does not need!

 

[GXTrex]

Yeah I agree. Ill look into a humidifier thank you. Any particular recommendations?

 

[lgelb]

Sometimes the CoughAssist aggravates the irritation of phlegm, so I would test that possibility. It is like sometimes if you have a little scratch in your throat -- if you cough or huff too much, it gets worse. But if you wait a few minutes, it goes away.

Here is another thread with tips.

 

[GXTrex]

Does anyone here have experience with Ridgecrest Clearlungs Extra Strength
Found on amazon? I saw it mentioned on Reddit but I want more opinions on it first. Thanks