Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 Hello, everyone-- This is my first visit and I wanted to share a couple of things regarding the battle with mucous. I have what's called an acapella--a device with a flutter valve which you can also attach to the device used for breathing treatments. When I do my albuterol/pulmacort treatment, I attach it to the acapella flutter valve and take care of the treatment and coughing up the mucous at the same time. It is really great and I highly recommend it over the device with the metal ball. The other thing I wanted to mention is that my doctor has me on a supplement called N-Acetyl Cysteine which helps to break up the mucous in the lungs. It comes in tablet and liquid form (and smells awful!--like rotten eggs)and I take 600 mg tablets 3x day. My doctor swears by it, and it certainly feels as though it really does help. I don't have to cough very hard, and the mucous comes up very easily. The supplement is made by Life Extension, and the website is www.lef.org, where it can be purchased. My doctor cautioned me not to use any other type of supplement that claims to do the same thing. My pharmacy has ordered it, and keeps it in stock for me. It works very well for me; check with your doctor. In Breathe-Support , sharon prendergast wrote: > > Hi Margaret, Have you heard of the flutter. I just emailed Jim about it , but its a small device that looks like a pipe and you can't inhale through it but you exhale and you can feel it flutter in your chest and cough and it truly brings up mucous which with my asthma mucous happens to be a problem. My doctors nurse told me about it and I am glad she did. sharon p asthma ph2008 > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > Subject: Re: question > To: Breathe-Support > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now. > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!! > > jim IPF 05 > alaska > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 Hello, everyone-- This is my first visit and I wanted to share a couple of things regarding the battle with mucous. I have what's called an acapella--a device with a flutter valve which you can also attach to the device used for breathing treatments. When I do my albuterol/pulmacort treatment, I attach it to the acapella flutter valve and take care of the treatment and coughing up the mucous at the same time. It is really great and I highly recommend it over the device with the metal ball. The other thing I wanted to mention is that my doctor has me on a supplement called N-Acetyl Cysteine which helps to break up the mucous in the lungs. It comes in tablet and liquid form (and smells awful!--like rotten eggs)and I take 600 mg tablets 3x day. My doctor swears by it, and it certainly feels as though it really does help. I don't have to cough very hard, and the mucous comes up very easily. The supplement is made by Life Extension, and the website is www.lef.org, where it can be purchased. My doctor cautioned me not to use any other type of supplement that claims to do the same thing. My pharmacy has ordered it, and keeps it in stock for me. It works very well for me; check with your doctor. In Breathe-Support , sharon prendergast wrote: > > Hi Margaret, Have you heard of the flutter. I just emailed Jim about it , but its a small device that looks like a pipe and you can't inhale through it but you exhale and you can feel it flutter in your chest and cough and it truly brings up mucous which with my asthma mucous happens to be a problem. My doctors nurse told me about it and I am glad she did. sharon p asthma ph2008 > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > Subject: Re: question > To: Breathe-Support > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now. > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!! > > jim IPF 05 > alaska > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 Hi, that is interesting since i do albuterol treatments myself. There are two types on ebay. Green and blue. Which do you use and where do you attach the tubing. I would like to try it.the flutter isn't bad but it seems right to do it during a breathing treatment Thanks sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 Hi, that is interesting since i do albuterol treatments myself. There are two types on ebay. Green and blue. Which do you use and where do you attach the tubing. I would like to try it.the flutter isn't bad but it seems right to do it during a breathing treatment Thanks sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 Hi, that is interesting since i do albuterol treatments myself. There are two types on ebay. Green and blue. Which do you use and where do you attach the tubing. I would like to try it.the flutter isn't bad but it seems right to do it during a breathing treatment Thanks sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense! > > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > > Subject: Re: question > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now. > > > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!! > > > > jim IPF 05 > > alaska > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense! > > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > > Subject: Re: question > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now. > > > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!! > > > > jim IPF 05 > > alaska > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense! > > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > > Subject: Re: question > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now. > > > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!! > > > > jim IPF 05 > > alaska > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 thank you so much. I'll let you know.Sharon p Subject: Re: questionTo: Breathe-Support Date: Saturday, January 31, 2009, 1:57 PM I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense!> > > > > > > > Subject: Re: question> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now.> > > > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> > Subject: question> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!!> > > > jim IPF 05> > alaska> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 thank you so much. I'll let you know.Sharon p Subject: Re: questionTo: Breathe-Support Date: Saturday, January 31, 2009, 1:57 PM I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense!> > > > > > > > Subject: Re: question> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now.> > > > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> > Subject: question> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!!> > > > jim IPF 05> > alaska> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 thank you so much. I'll let you know.Sharon p Subject: Re: questionTo: Breathe-Support Date: Saturday, January 31, 2009, 1:57 PM I use the green acapella; the other is smaller, and I'm not sure what the difference is other than that. When you put it all together, the mouthpiece goes on the end with the extended plastic piece, and on the other end you insert the flutter valve (a tiny piece that fits snug into the other end), then attach your container of medication to a plastic piece that then fits into the other end after the flutter valve is in. Then the tubing from the nebulizer fits a small extention at the bottom of the medication container, and you're all set. It's used just like a regular nebulizer except the flutter valve vibrates, and you can feel it all the way down in your lungs. Saves so much time! Hope this makes sense!> > > > > > > > Subject: Re: question> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > now.> > > > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> > Subject: question> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > not talked about much, but I need > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think > todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank > you!!!!> > > > jim IPF 05> > alaska> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 feaganesd, Please could we have a name. Just wanted to let you know you an order NAC fromPuritan Pride on line very cheap. Most here do use it, that is if our tummies can tolerate it.Welcome to our group. So sorry you needed to find us but you couldn't have landed in a better place. These are the most supportive, compassionate, informative people you could ever hope to find.Hang around, ask questions and make your self comfortable. Love & Prayers, PeggyFlorida, IPF/UIP 2004"I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet, when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly." Hello, everyone--This is my first visit and I wanted to share a couple of things regarding the battle with mucous. I have what's called an acapella--a device with a flutter valve which you can also attach to the device used for breathing treatments. When I do my albuterol/pulmacort treatment, I attach it to the acapella flutter valve and take care of the treatment and coughing up the mucous at the same time. It is really great and I highly recommend it over the device with the metal ball. The other thing I wanted to mention is that my doctor has me on a supplement called N-Acetyl Cysteine which helps to break up the mucous in the lungs. It comes in tablet and liquid form (and smells awful!--like rotten eggs)and I take 600 mg tablets 3x day. My doctor swears by it, and it certainly feels as though it really does help. I don't have to cough very hard, and the mucous comes up very easily. The supplement is made by Life Extension, and the website is www.lef.org, where it can be purchased. My doctor cautioned me not to use any other type of supplement that claims to do the same thing. My pharmacy has ordered it, and keeps it in stock for me. It works very well for me; check with your doctor.In Breathe-Support , sharon prendergast wrote:>> Hi Margaret, Have you heard of the flutter. I just emailed Jim about it , but its a small device that looks like a pipe and you can't inhale through it but you exhale and you can feel it flutter in your chest and cough and it truly brings up mucous which with my asthma mucous happens to be a problem. My doctors nurse told me about it and I am glad she did. sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 feaganesd, Please could we have a name. Just wanted to let you know you an order NAC fromPuritan Pride on line very cheap. Most here do use it, that is if our tummies can tolerate it.Welcome to our group. So sorry you needed to find us but you couldn't have landed in a better place. These are the most supportive, compassionate, informative people you could ever hope to find.Hang around, ask questions and make your self comfortable. Love & Prayers, PeggyFlorida, IPF/UIP 2004"I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet, when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly." Hello, everyone--This is my first visit and I wanted to share a couple of things regarding the battle with mucous. I have what's called an acapella--a device with a flutter valve which you can also attach to the device used for breathing treatments. When I do my albuterol/pulmacort treatment, I attach it to the acapella flutter valve and take care of the treatment and coughing up the mucous at the same time. It is really great and I highly recommend it over the device with the metal ball. The other thing I wanted to mention is that my doctor has me on a supplement called N-Acetyl Cysteine which helps to break up the mucous in the lungs. It comes in tablet and liquid form (and smells awful!--like rotten eggs)and I take 600 mg tablets 3x day. My doctor swears by it, and it certainly feels as though it really does help. I don't have to cough very hard, and the mucous comes up very easily. The supplement is made by Life Extension, and the website is www.lef.org, where it can be purchased. My doctor cautioned me not to use any other type of supplement that claims to do the same thing. My pharmacy has ordered it, and keeps it in stock for me. It works very well for me; check with your doctor.In Breathe-Support , sharon prendergast wrote:>> Hi Margaret, Have you heard of the flutter. I just emailed Jim about it , but its a small device that looks like a pipe and you can't inhale through it but you exhale and you can feel it flutter in your chest and cough and it truly brings up mucous which with my asthma mucous happens to be a problem. My doctors nurse told me about it and I am glad she did. sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2009 Report Share Posted January 31, 2009 feaganesd, Please could we have a name. Just wanted to let you know you an order NAC fromPuritan Pride on line very cheap. Most here do use it, that is if our tummies can tolerate it.Welcome to our group. So sorry you needed to find us but you couldn't have landed in a better place. These are the most supportive, compassionate, informative people you could ever hope to find.Hang around, ask questions and make your self comfortable. Love & Prayers, PeggyFlorida, IPF/UIP 2004"I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet, when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly." Hello, everyone--This is my first visit and I wanted to share a couple of things regarding the battle with mucous. I have what's called an acapella--a device with a flutter valve which you can also attach to the device used for breathing treatments. When I do my albuterol/pulmacort treatment, I attach it to the acapella flutter valve and take care of the treatment and coughing up the mucous at the same time. It is really great and I highly recommend it over the device with the metal ball. The other thing I wanted to mention is that my doctor has me on a supplement called N-Acetyl Cysteine which helps to break up the mucous in the lungs. It comes in tablet and liquid form (and smells awful!--like rotten eggs)and I take 600 mg tablets 3x day. My doctor swears by it, and it certainly feels as though it really does help. I don't have to cough very hard, and the mucous comes up very easily. The supplement is made by Life Extension, and the website is www.lef.org, where it can be purchased. My doctor cautioned me not to use any other type of supplement that claims to do the same thing. My pharmacy has ordered it, and keeps it in stock for me. It works very well for me; check with your doctor.In Breathe-Support , sharon prendergast wrote:>> Hi Margaret, Have you heard of the flutter. I just emailed Jim about it , but its a small device that looks like a pipe and you can't inhale through it but you exhale and you can feel it flutter in your chest and cough and it truly brings up mucous which with my asthma mucous happens to be a problem. My doctors nurse told me about it and I am glad she did. sharon p asthma ph2008> > > > > > Subject: Re: question> To: Breathe-Support > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM> > > > > > > > > Hi Jim,> > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase.> > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now.> > Margaret> > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman <james_wallman@ yahoo.com>> To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com> Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM> Subject: question> > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!!> > jim IPF 05> alaska> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 1, 2009 Report Share Posted February 1, 2009 Needed that laugh BARB i am right there with you... patti,nj,ipf7'06,raynauds,scleroderma,PH > > From: Margaret McConnell > Subject: Re: question > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 2:48 PM > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > � > �Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I could try OTC�Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > � > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is for. I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only seen it done on children.�I used to wheeze really badly but didn't cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > � > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for now. > � > Margaret > � > � > � > � > �� > > > > > > From:�james wallman > To:�Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > Sent:�Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > Subject:� question > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is not talked about much, but I need info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel like passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use liquid acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of time....and lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no reason to give me antibiotics.�I think this is associated with a virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > � > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? I read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine a long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to me, conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I think todays session is winding down. But for future reference... ....Thank you!!!! > � > jim IPF 05 > alaska > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 1, 2009 Report Share Posted February 1, 2009 Bruce, I had been treated for the past 18 months for asthma/chronic bronchitis and within a year's time had been on prednizone three times. When shortness of breath suddenly and rapidly appeared, I found a new lung specialist who treated me aggressively for the same thing for two weeks, but admitted me from my second visit to the hospital for five days,where amongst other tests and films, I had a CT scan of the chest which showed unquestionably that I have pulmonary fibrosis. With all the prednisone I've had, I'm surprised I have responded so well. In addition to the prednizone, I do two breathing treatments a day, and have very little coughing except when I'm doing my treatments (which,, of course, is a good thing!). We're beginning to taper off from the prednizone. I started w/ 60 mg/day, have been on 50 mg/day for a month, and will see the doctor tomorrow with hopes that he'll decrease dosage again. I'm really doing extremely well right now and feel I am in good hands with my doctor. We have talked about an open lung biopsy by a specialist in Cincinnati he has worked with frequently, but he feels this is something we can currently place on hold, to see how I do over the next several months. The side effects of the prednizone really bother me, and I must remind myself to think with my head and not my heart. I'm hanging in there,knowing that dealing with the side effects is such a minor thing compared to the ramifications of this disease. We'll see what the doctor says tomorrow! > > > > > > > > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > > > > Subject: Re: question > > > > To: Breathe-Support > > > > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > > > > > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > > > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I looked > > > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said that I > > > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask about > > > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't had a > > > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > > > > > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is > > for. > > > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One of the > > > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with cystic > > > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > > > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have only > > > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but didn't > > > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > > > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the shoulder > > > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > > > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has the > > > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing right > > > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of it for > > > now. > > > > > > > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > > > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > > > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > > > > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and so is > > > not talked about much, but I need > > > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I can't > > > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel > > like > > > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use > > liquid > > > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've found > > > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > > > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of > > time....and > > > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found no > > > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > > > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical suction? > > I > > > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the acetylsysteine > > a > > > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch to > > me, > > > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I > > think > > > todays session is winding down. But for future > > reference... ....Thank > > > you!!!! > > > > > > > > jim IPF 05 > > > > alaska > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 1, 2009 Report Share Posted February 1, 2009 Diane Many of us were considered to be short of breath because of asthma or allergies or age or being out of shape prior to the PF diagnosis. As to prednisone, the previous treatments you had were very little. Let me explain. Being on prednisone for 6 days to 2 weeks is a normal reaction to various conditions including the ones you describe. However, that is an easy on/easy off level of dosage and generally without the side effects of long term use. You often even get such a dosage to help on top of antibiotics in wiping out infections or to relieve inflammation of many types. I've been on dosages like that with prednisone or other steroids more times in my life than I can remember. I was on strong dosages when in college to try to one time clear my allergies (was unsuccessful). Now, you're on a typical PF path of prednisone treatment, starting at 60 and working down. When you cross three weeks is typically when side effects come into more play and also when withdrawal becomes difficult. Now, know about the side effects so you take the steps to monitor. There are things you can take for your bones. You can diet in such a way to try to avoid diabetes or minimize it. Weight gain is something you can attempt to fight, although often impossible. Many doctors say within three months you should know if this course is helping or not. You seem to have an indication it is. Now, I know you have confidence in your current pulmonologist, but when it comes to a disease such as this one I would always get a second opinion. Especially since you've already had a change on a second opinion. Doctor one said Asthma. Doctor two says PF. I'd sure take a day at a teaching hospital, preferably an IPF center of excellence for a complete battery. Have you been thoroughly evaluated for autoimmune diseases? Assuming he diagnosed you from CT's, what did they indicate as far as the form of PF? Additional tests might well shed light on why or what the prednisone is helping. One last point. You can have asthma or COPD and PF. It's very important to get a fix on that because the asthma and COPD are obstructive and the PF is restrictive. Some of the things we say here regarding PF would be bad if you also have COPD, especially when it comes to the proper use of oxygen. As to the biopsy, I would think instead of Open they are talking VATS. You need to consider why you'd want to do it or not want to. It is invasive and not without some risks of complications. On the other hand it can be very informative. But from your CT's and the impact of prednisone you may already have the answers you need. I had a VATS and am glad I did but one of my key reasons was to decide whether to try prednisone or not. You're beyond that stage. I might also say, not knowing where or how your CT's were done, that, true or not, most centers specializing in PF think they can do them much better and find out much more than a normal doctor's office or lab. One last thing. Have you had an echocardiogram? If not, I'd advise anyone with PF to get one and to start getting them regularly. PH is a bad complication we all want to try to avoid and treat early if we do get it. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: Margaret McConnell > > > > > Subject: Re: question > > > > > To: Breathe-Support > > > > > Date: Friday, January 30, 2009, 5:48 PM > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Hi Jim, > > > > > > > > > > Good to be talking to a fellow Alaskan. I think I have been > > > > experiencing our Alaska virus for a week or so; that's why I > looked > > > > up this site, I was feeling so crummy. Last week my doc said > that I > > > > could try OTC Musinex; could you just call your doc and ask > about > > > > trying that, if it is safe for you, without charge? I haven't > had a > > > > bad mucous problem but do have a little increase. > > > > > > > > > > I have never heard of your medication so don't know what it is > > > for. > > > > I do know a lot of water is supposed to help with mucous. One > of the > > > > med tecs that works in my doc's office has two children with > cystic > > > > fibrosis. I know they use the the mechanical suction. I think it > > > > might be something your wife would have to help with but I have > only > > > > seen it done on children. I used to wheeze really badly but > didn't > > > > cough or cough up much. What really helped me was to lie on my > > > > stomach and have my daughter pat my back right between the > shoulder > > > > blades. It felt good and I know they do that with the CF kids to > > > > loosen up stuff. It would be nice for this virus to pass! > > > > > > > > > > What is the weather like in your neck of the woods today? Has > the > > > > volcano ash ever blown your way? It is 19 degrees and snowing > right > > > > now here. Hope you feel better and this truly was the last of > it for > > > > now. > > > > > > > > > > Margaret > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > From: james wallman > > > > > To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. com > > > > > Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 1:36:24 PM > > > > > Subject: question > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > this is one of those subjects that is rather unpleasant and > so is > > > > not talked about much, but I need > > > > info/advice. ........mucus. .......is my worst enemy. When I > can't > > > > cough it up, keep coughing, sats drop, very sob, very weak, feel > > > like > > > > passing out. This condition hasn't hit me for some time. I use > > > liquid > > > > acetylsysteine 3 times a day and drink lots of water. (I've > found > > > > that makes alot of difference) My wife works at the hospital and > > > > thinks I should go be seen, and I think that's a waste of > > > time....and > > > > lots of money. I did a sputum sample 2 days ago and they found > no > > > > reason to give me antibiotics. I think this is associated with a > > > > virus going around though I have no other symptoms. > > > > > > > > > > Question: has anyone heard of or experienced mechanical > suction? > > > I > > > > read that term on the fact sheet that comes with the > acetylsysteine > > > a > > > > long time ago. Is that something they do? Sounds like a bronch > to > > > me, > > > > conjures up some not too pleasant pictures in my head........ I > > > think > > > > todays session is winding down. But for future > > > reference... ....Thank > > > > you!!!! > > > > > > > > > > jim IPF 05 > > > > > alaska > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 9, 2009 Report Share Posted April 9, 2009 Resources on any large wild fire are dependant upon the needs of the incident hence this is the call of the Incident Commander. If he or she feels they need a Strike Team then they can easily request one or more as they see fit for deployment as they see fit. I have used Ambulance Strike teams in a Staging Area on large wild fires when I was concerned that a wind shift might cause the need to evacuate a small long term car facility. I put an Engine Strike Team along with a Tender Strike Team as well as the Ambulance Strike Team in the parking lot of the LTC facility. Their only mission was to defend and protect the LTC should the Engine Strike Team Leader feel that the LTC needed to evacuate should the wind shift. The ESTL had the authority to make that call delegated to him by me as the IC. The wind did shift but in the opposite direction of my concern so we eventually redeployed the Engine and Tender Strike teams and released the Ambulance Strike team. So a definite maybe. Louis N. Molino, Sr., CET FF/NREMT-B/FSI/EMSI Freelance Consultant/Trainer/Author/Journalist/Fire Protection Consultant LNMolino@... (Cell Phone) (IFW/FSS Office)/ (IFWF/SS Fax) " A Texan with a Jersey Attitude " " Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people " Eleanor Roosevelt - US diplomat & reformer (1884 - 1962) The comments contained in this E-mail are the opinions of the author and the author alone. I in no way ever intend to speak for any person or organization that I am in any way whatsoever involved or associated with unless I specifically state that I am doing so. Further this E-mail is intended only for its stated recipient and may contain private and or confidential materials retransmission is strictly prohibited unless placed in the public domain by the original author. In a message dated 4/9/2009 9:50:14 P.M. Central Daylight Time, joby@... writes: With the large area of fires here in North Texas does the Ambulance Strike Team get called? Joby Berkley Sent from my iPhone ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links **************Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood00000001) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 5, 2009 Report Share Posted December 5, 2009 Does anyone know what it would take for me to work in the state of new york with my certification from texas? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 6, 2009 Report Share Posted December 6, 2009 Must be certified CRAZY In a message dated 12/5/2009 9:27:03 P.M. Central Standard Time, sldbet@... writes: Does anyone know what it would take for me to work in the state of new york with my certification from texas? ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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