Huff Cough: A How To Guide

Summary

This instructional script explains the technique of 'huffing' as a method to clear mucus from the lungs. It distinguishes between low-level and high-level huffs, with the former moving mucus from smaller to larger airways, and the latter expelling it from the lungs. The process involves specific breathing patterns, holding breath, and forceful exhalation, with tips to maintain an open airway. It concludes by recommending consultation with a respiratory therapist for proper technique.

Takeaways

• 🎶 Coughing is the natural way of getting mucus out of the lungs.
• 🫁 Huffing is a gentle way of coughing.
• 🔄 Low-level huffing helps move mucus from the small airways to the larger airways.
• ⬆️ High-level huffing helps move mucus from the larger airways up and out of the lungs.
• 🔂 Recommended to do three low-level huffs followed by three high-level huffs to clear mucus.
• 😮‍💨 To perform a low-level huff, slowly inhale through your nose, hold your breath for three seconds.
• 📏 Holding your breath allows air to get behind the mucus while maintaining an open airway.
• 💨 Force the air out of your lungs using belly muscles, continuing as long as you hear airflow.
• 👅 Putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth or making an exaggerated 'O' with your mouth helps keep an open airway.
• 🔁 Repeat the low-level huff process two more times.
• 🌬️ For high-level huff, inhale slowly and deeply through your nose until you can't take in any more air, then sniff to take in even more air.
• ⏱️ Hold your breath for three seconds while maintaining an open airway.
• 🗣️ Perform a short, quick, and forceful exhalation.
• 👍 Consult with a respiratory therapist for more information and to check for proper technique.

Q & A

What is the purpose of coughing and huffing in the context of respiratory health?

Coughing and huffing help to clear mucus from the lungs, aiding in maintaining clear airways. Coughing is a natural way of expelling mucus, while huffing is a gentler technique to achieve the same goal.

What are the two levels of huffing, and what are their purposes?

There are low-level and high-level huffing. Low-level huffing moves mucus from the small airways lower in the lungs to the larger airways. High-level huffing helps expel mucus from the larger airways out of the lungs.

How should one perform a low-level huff?

To perform a low-level huff, inhale slowly through your nose, hold your breath for three seconds, and then force the air out of your lungs using your belly muscles. This should be repeated three times.

What is the purpose of holding your breath for three seconds during a huff?

Holding your breath for three seconds allows air to get behind the mucus while maintaining an open airway, which helps move the mucus.

What techniques can help maintain an open airway during huffing?

Putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth or making an exaggerated 'O' with your mouth can help maintain an open airway.

Describe the steps for performing a high-level huff.

To perform a high-level huff, inhale deeply through your nose until you can't take in any more air, then sniff to take in a bit more air. Hold your breath for three seconds and then perform a short, quick, and forceful exhalation.

Why is it recommended to sniff after a deep inhale during high-level huffing?

Sniffing after a deep inhale ensures that the lungs are fully filled with air, maximizing the amount of air that can be used to forcefully expel mucus.

How many times should one perform the low-level and high-level huffing techniques?

It is recommended to perform three low-level huffs followed by three high-level huffs.

Why is it important to talk with a respiratory therapist regarding huffing techniques?

A respiratory therapist can provide personalized guidance and ensure proper technique, which is crucial for effectively clearing mucus and maintaining respiratory health.

What role do the belly muscles play in the huffing technique?

The belly muscles are used to force the air out of the lungs during a huff, helping to move and expel mucus.