Petey, thank you for your reply. We have the miracle mouthwash. This mucous builds up in the mouth and then the person spits in a kleenex etc. A suction machine is not necessary for this spitting. I am familiar with a suction machine and its uses as part of our nursing techniques. (I work with the elderly)I am wondering about the lumps in my husbands throat and when the spitting will stop. I also wondered about his sore throat. 1 radiation left, 1 chemo pending. Thanks again. Carol...