Should i start airway clearance yet for bronchiectasis with more sputum?

[MilaJ]

I’ve been diagnosed with bronchiectasis for a few years, but lately I’ve noticed my usual daily cough is producing a lot more sputum than before, and it’s changed in color and thickness. My pulmonologist mentioned airway clearance techniques during my last visit, but I’m not sure if what I’m experiencing now means I should start one immediately or if it’s just a normal fluctuation.

[Nicholas_S]

I hear you. Some days the cough brings a lot more mucus and it can look thicker and a bit yellow. In my experience that can be a small flare or just normal variation. If it lasts more than a couple of days or you feel feverish or short of breath that is a good reason to text the clinic.

[Brian36]

One time I tried airway clearance for a week when I saw the color shift. I did feel a little relief after a few days but life got busy and I stopped. I did not notice a big change but at least I had a sense of control.

[Penelope.R]

Do you have a plan from your doctor for when to start those techniques during a change like this?

[Grace_L]

I was chasing a busy week and skipped the check in on my own cough. I still noticed the change in mucus and I wondered if I was just tired. Maybe the real issue is not the technique but being too rushed to do it properly. I am still unsure.