Hi,
We never used one, nor was one recommended with Neil, but in theory it should loosen the phlegm, making it easier to cought it up.  If you go that route though make sure to clean it as per instructions as they can harbour mould if not cleaned properly.

Sue xx

 Hi, thank you for that and that’s a really good point. Will  make sure I keep it clean as possible. I think I’m going to go for it, anything is worth a try besides which if it works I can let people know it may help them too

Hi Ruth,

Have you spoken to Steve's care team about this? They may be able to supply him with one which has single use parts, or can be cleaned easier than one you can buy over the counter.

I hope that you have some success with this.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

 Hi, I mentioned it to our oncologists nurse. She didn’t say either way so I went ahead and bought it.

 Good suggestion  thanks very much. 

Hi Ruth,

I'm glad to hear that you've got one and hope that it makes a difference for Steve. Do I take it that he is still in hospital?

Thinking of you both.

Regards,

Jolamine xx

 Hello there how are you? Steve came out on Friday but struggling badly with the dreaded phlegm.  And he has lost an enormous amount of weight but we can do something about that over time. 

 Early signs are the humidifier is helping  it is certainly listening things up a little for him 

xx

Hi Ruth,

I'm glad that Steve is home again and that the humidifier is helping.

I'm still struggling with my mouth infection, caused by dry mouth as a result of my medication. I have been attending the hospital for guidance, but the tablet they want to give me reacts with 5 of my current tablets. May have to get microbiology involved, but the waiting is frustrating.

I hope that Steve manages to stay at home this time. I'm sure that he is happy to be home again.

Thinking of you both,

Jolamine xx

Hi Ruth 

Have you tried hyoscine patches. They are placed behind the ear. They dry up secretions when a patients hasn't the strength to cough them up. Some patients find they make them very dry others think they are great, it's worth a try. Maria

thanks honey I'll ask S's team on Friday x