Respiratory Care Week: Finding What Works for Your Airway Clearance Routine

During this Respiratory Care Week, the most important takeaway is that there is no single method that works for everyone when it comes to airway clearance.

Dr Colin Swenson and Dr Wendi Drummond podcast speakers on NTM lung disease and bronchiectasis

 Each person living with bronchiectasis or other chronic lung conditions has unique needs, physical abilities, and comfort levels. What matters most is finding the combination of tools and techniques that help you breathe easier and stay consistent over time.

Airway Clearance Is Both Science and Art

All current bronchiectasis guidelines recommend working with a respiratory therapist to learn proper airway clearance techniques. These specialists can demonstrate breathing exercises, oscillating positive expiratory devices, and postural drainage positions that improve mucus clearance. But even with expert instruction, airway clearance remains as much an art as it is a science.
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Consistency, timing, and creativity all play a role. Some people prefer short sessions throughout the day, while others set aside dedicated time morning and evening. The key is to listen to your body and notice what feels effective and sustainable.

Personal Consultations Can Make a Difference

Many people find it helpful to schedule a consultation with me, Linda Esposito, to review their airway clearance routine. I demonstrate my own techniques and share the tools I use, then we talk about what you currently do and explore ways to make your routine more efficient and personalized.

​Together, we can identify adjustments and additions for your airway clearance toolkit that help you clear mucus more effectively and with less stress.

Keep Learning and Keep Breathing

Respiratory Care Week is a reminder to appreciate the incredible professionals who help us breathe better and to keep improving our own self-care practices. Whether you are new to airway clearance or refining your long-time routine, remember that progress comes from learning, experimenting, and adapting.

Let’s keep learning together and continue building confidence in our daily airway clearance routines.

Have a listen to this podcast series featuring two podcasts on Airway Clearance!! 

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