Pulmonary hygiene

Pulmonary Hygiene

Pulmonary hygiene, also known as respiratory hygiene or lung hygiene, refers to the methods used to clear mucus and secretions from the lungs. These techniques are often used in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and other conditions that cause excess mucus production.

Pronunciation: /pʌlˈmɒnəri haɪˈdʒiːn/

Etymology: The term "pulmonary" comes from the Latin pulmonarius, meaning "of the lungs", and "hygiene" comes from the Greek hygieine techne, meaning "healthful art".

Techniques

There are several techniques used in pulmonary hygiene, including:

Chest physiotherapy (CPT): This involves physical manipulation of the chest to promote mucus clearance. It can include percussion, vibration, and postural drainage.

Breathing exercises: These exercises, such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, can help improve lung function and promote mucus clearance.

Airway clearance devices: These devices, such as the Flutter valve, can help loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up.

Mucolytic agents: These medications can help thin mucus in the lungs, making it easier to clear.

Related Terms

Bronchial hygiene: This is a similar concept to pulmonary hygiene, but focuses specifically on the bronchial tubes.

Respiratory therapy: This is a broader field that includes pulmonary hygiene as well as other treatments for respiratory conditions.

Pulmonology: This is the medical specialty that deals with diseases involving the respiratory tract, including those that may require pulmonary hygiene.