What about using an OPEP device in patients with COVID-19? Studies still need to be done to determine long-term efficacy in patients with COPD and other chronic conditions. The OPEP devices on the market are generally safe if used properly. It is unlikely that in a healthy person, using an OPEP will “strengthen the lungs” unless the patient has a chronic illness such as COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, or other conditions. Careful attention should be given to disinfecting the devices. Patients with hypersecretory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis get the most use out of OPEP or a lung cleaning device. Who gets the most out of using an OPEP or lung-cleaning device? And as stated, even in those patients with respiratory infections, it is likely of little benefit. It is unlikely the device performs any function at all in patients without a respiratory infection. It does nothing to eliminate the pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. The concept of using an OPEP device is to drain the mucus, improve oxygenation, and reduce inflammation in the airways. They allow for “lung cleaning” or mobilizing mucus and secretions. They work by shifting the air pressure in the airways and by preventing airway collapse. OPEP devices use positive pressure and oscillation. Unfortunately, only a few research studies have shown OPEP to be helpful in patients with lower respiratory tract illnesses. The success of using OPEP in these severe respiratory conditions made OPEP widely popular. It is supposed to be more effective than PEP and has been used in patients initially with cystic fibrosis, asthma, and bronchitis. OPEP is a form of PEP, but it also works using airway vibrations or oscillations. Positive expiratory pressure therapy (PEP) works by preventing the collapse of the airways and increasing what air is left in the lungs or functional residual capacity. It is unproven for patients who may have a normal respiratory function or for those recovering from an acute, not chronic, illness. Pulmonary rehabilitation is aimed at solving a patient’s unique problems. ![]() Pulmonary rehabilitation is done through a coordinated effort with the patient, their family and friends, and their healthcare team. It is aimed at improving physical and social activity, and therefore working toward an improved quality of life. ![]() In particular, it will attempt to answer the question: Is it a scam? What are the goals of pulmonary rehabilitation?įirst and foremost, pulmonary rehabilitation is aimed at reducing symptoms for those patients who have disabilities due to respiratory problems. This article will cover the ins and outs of lung cleaning devices such as the AirPhysio. The device made in Australia is essentially an OPEP device. ![]() It is unclear whether normal adults need “lung cleaning”. It is unclear how effective OPEP devices are for normal people. It should not be used in cases where there is tuberculosis, heart failure, and pneumothorax. These include patients who have been diagnosed with COPD, cystic fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and other disorders. Patients who are struggling with clearing mucus use OPEP devices. It is a non-invasive, drug-free method that is meant to assist patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Chest physiotherapy is used to improve the movement and removal of airway secretions in patients with respiratory problems.Ī type of device used in chest physiotherapy is OPEP therapy, which stands for Oscillating Expiratory Pressure. The basis of pulmonary rehabilitation is clinically sound with a long history of clinical management and health maintenance for patients who have a chronic respiratory disease. ![]() To back up, as a general rule, healthy patients with normal respiratory function do not need to use a lung cleaning device or undergo pulmonary rehabilitation. Evidence from large clinical studies is lacking for the use of OPEP devices for adjunct therapy with the management of COPD and COPD exacerbations.
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