-> Hi there...
-> I was curious as to what type of vents everyone is using. I am
-> currently using a PLV 100. I have a permenant trach. When diagnosed
-> PPS my pulmonologist tried a CPAP and a BiPAP machine but I just
-> couldn't tolerate the mask over my face. How many of the lists
-> people use trach vs. the mask.
Hello, Annette! I use an LP 6 vent. I have a pernament trach.
I was weaned off using my vent 24 hrs/dy in 1983 for about 11 months.
My trach was removed, and I started to use a Curace Shell. For those
who don't know, a Curace is a plastic bubble that is molded to fit over
the chest. It uses negative pressure to assist in breathing. It is
the same principle as an iron lung. Then I caught pneumonia, and had to
have my trach put back in.
-> Also people with trach are there more times during particular periods
-> when you have to suction? I can go for 2 mths and sleep soundly with
-> the vent and then I have weeks were my vent alarm beeps constantly
-> because of mucus. Talk about sleep deprivation. I am going thru a
-> period of sleepless nights. Will go to the doctor on Wednesday to see
-> what is going on with my lungs.
The changing seasons usually makes more suctioning for me. The
change in weather always agravates my sinuses, causing post-nasal drip.
Most of the suctioning that I have is caused by mucous draining down
from my head. When conditions are right, I usually only need suctioning
a couple of times a day. What little mucous that may accumulate is
usually easy to cough up. Since I have had a cuffless trach for about
10 years, I have learned how to deal with excess mucous without
suctioning. This is very good for me because it allows me to go places
without an attendant tagging along.
-> Will go to the doctor on Wednesday to see what is going on
-> with my lungs.
Good luck with your doctor! Don't let him sell you wooden
nickels! ;-)
Blane
:)