RE: Excessive secretions
Quiroga (quiroga(AT)airastur.es)
Tue, 7 Oct 1997 18:34:58 +0200
I agree with you with respect to the possible advantage of the HME (this
is the generic name of this devices, that means heat and moisture
exchangers, also known as "artificial noses"). In some cases excess of
secretions are related with the excessive humidification and this doesnīt
happen with HME. We use them for our patients and they are going very well.
Perhaps cost could be a problem because in some cases itīs necessary to use
more than one per day. Itīs very important to avoid saturation in the HME
because that can cause an obstruction, impairing ventilation.
Thereīs a question that as a doctor I would like to clarify. Ventolin has
no effect on the secretions. Salbutamol (the generic name) is a
bronchodilator who acts trough the beta receptors in the bronchi producing
dilatation. But it also acts over beta receptors in the heart so it can
produce tachicardia. Itīs usually prescribed for patients with obstructive
lung disease. But in cases in wich the predominant alteration is
restrictive (like in PPS) could be used because it can exist a certain
grade of obstruction. But, remenber, no action over secretions. Ther are
drugs like N-Acetilcystein with mucolytic effect but one of the best way to
avoid thin secretions is an adecuate hydration and correct humidification
of the inspired air.
I have to give thanks to all the people here who has answered to my
question about systems for disabled people to manage computers. Iīm really
impressed. Your attitude in this list sharing your experiences and trying
to help each other is really great.
And I would like to say something to Val (and thanks Val for you aids).
You know there are excellent doctors (you told me about some of them).
Donīt be angry, itīs not a healthy state. Just look for people who wants
to help (doctors and non doctors). Iīm sure you have met that kind of
people. And if you meet someone who thinks life doesnīt worth because you
have to use a wheelchair and a ventilator, just FORGET IT! You have to
continue fighting (sure you have battled a lot, yet) but donīt be angry,
Val. And you can practice spanish with me if you want (ĄBuena suerte!)
Sincerely
Dr. J.M. Quiroga
Intensive Care Unit
Hospital Central de Asturias
Oviedo. Spain
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> De: Valerie Brew-Parrish <brew-parrish(AT)juno.com>
> A: vent-users(AT)eskimo.com
> Asunto: Re: Excessive secretions
> Fecha: martes 7 de octubre de 1997 17:27
>
> Hi Charlie,
> I think Becky has given you good advice. I got rid of my humidifier about
> a yr. ago. I now use the thermo vents that Becky uses only I replace it
> every other day so bacteria doesn't build up. A nebulizer should be an
> absolute must for anyone with respiratory problems. I use it when I have
> a cold. You need a prescription drug called "Ventolin" to use with the
> nebulizer. It thins the secretions and up comes the phlegm with little
> effort. When I first started using the plv-100, I had so many secretions
> the gook (can't think of a more appropriate word) actually glued my eyes
> shut. The doctor told me to take a Sudafed when I went to bed. It helped
> and now I don't need any antihistamine or decongestion. I hope these
> suggestions help you. It must be just so miserable to have to cough for
> hours. Let us know how you're doing.
> Val