Posts Tagged ‘COPD’

Here’s some good news for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other conditions with chronic mucus production. A new device called the Lung Flute, which has just been approved by the FDA, can vibrate away mucus by simply blowing into it. Blowing into the instrument sends a steady 16-hertz vibration into the user’s chest which breaks up mucus and allows the body to better expel the sticky substance. Although there are other devices that also use vibration to loosen mucus, the Lung Flute costs a great deal less at $40 a piece, making it much more accessible. See a video of the device in action here.  [via PopSci.com]

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Best of What’s New 2009: Playing the Lung Flute from PopSci.com on Vimeo.

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As the nation gears up for another July 4th holiday, those with respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis and COPD need to be aware of potential disease flare ups due to soot and ozone propelled into the air by barbecues, fireworks, and the increased number of cars on roads. Exposure to high levels of ozone can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and even heart attacks in both healthy people and those with pulmonary disease. Therefore, be aware of your local pollution level and limit strenuous exercise (which can cause you to inhale more pollutants) during times of increased air pollution. Have a safe and happy fourth!

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