I got my suction maching today. it works great for getting the stuff in the mouh, but what do I do about the stuff deep down in my throat. They did not show me how to use they just came and set it up for me and made sure it was working. I did get some smaller tubes and what not, but sure how to get the mucous out of the throat. Any ideas?

Angelia

GARGLE & SPIT with Seltzer water: the carbonation breaks up the deep mucous like those scrubbing bubbles you see on the TV commercials. It does sting a little bit at first but I found it refreshing. Even plain water will help bring up that stuff if you gargle & spit. focus on the roof of your mouth as you do it, and the mucous should come up enough to suction it out
Good luck - at least they showed you how to set it up, my suction machine was just left at the doorstep in a box.
charm

I love this suction machine. I was able to actually sleep for three hours last night without interuption. I felft like a new woman, well until I all the mucous that settled in my throat decided to start coming up. Thankful I had the suction machine to get most of it out.

I also was given Guaifenex (RX) to help with the mucous. The tablets are large so you may have difficulty swallowing them. Many people take Robitussin which contains Guiafenex. Glad the suction machine is helping. Glad you finally got some sleep.

Take care,
Eileen

I also picked up a suction machine yesterday. I have only 4 more treatments left, but was starting to have issues where I'd wake up from naps having difficulty breathing my throat was so clogged with mucus. I have to agree, I really love my machine!
Angelia, I admire you. When things get rough, I just remind myself how rough you had it and that you made it through. I know I can get through these last 4 treatments.

Oh, Jen you can do it. Yeah it was rough, but that just means I will be able to help others who go through the same thing. I have also learned a lot from this experience and have become a stronger person. Yes, you can do it. We are all cheering for you.

I also need to add the I take Robitussin DM, It has the guafenesin and a cough suppressant which has been a life saver as well. I do not cough nearly as much, and if I take it on schedule , every 4 hours the mucous is not as bad. I just have to remember to put it down the tube every 4 hours.

Angelia,

Add your Tx end date to your Signature Line as that will help us help you thru your recovery period.

Also maybe, just maybe, your thick stuff is decreasing.

Glad the suction machine is helping.

Selzter water helped me dislodge the deep stuff once I could tolerate the carbonation. Prior to that plain water helped during the mucositus phase. Try to drink some water first thing when you get up in the morning.

One day it just stopped, about 2-6 weeks post Tx, which has been the average experience here.

Taking decongestants is tricky because it can exacerbate the zerostomia, which makes the mucous harder to dislodge. My doctor prescribed Guaifen/P-ephed (Entex) for me with mixed results.

The best thing to do is stay properly hydrated. 2-3 liters a day. It will also help with the constipation issues from pain meds and protect the kidneys from damage from chemo.

If you didn't have patience before this disease you will have a new found appreciation for it afterwards...

My insurance turned me down for a suction machine. I understand the choking from phlem very well and not only at nite in bed, but all day long. maybe if I use my 6 HP air compressor I can blow it down because it sure doesn't like to come up.