SmartVest Blog

Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (or NTM) are organisms that naturally occur in water, soil, and dust.¹ When you inhale these NTM organisms, the bacteria travel to your lungs, which may cause a respiratory infection to develop. Though NTM lung disease can affect anyone, you may be at higher risk if you have a pre-existing lung condition, such […]

Coughing fits can be disruptive, uncomfortable, and sometimes downright embarrassing. But did you know that they may also indicate an underlying health condition? In this article, we’ll explore the link between coughing fits and certain lung conditions, shedding light on what you need to know to help manage your symptoms. What Is Considered a “Coughing […]

Our respiratory system is a complex network of organs and tissues responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. It consists of two main parts: The upper respiratory tract The lower respiratory tract The upper respiratory tract includes the nose, nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, and larynx while the lower respiratory tract […]

Mucus typically gets a bad reputation, but it actually helps protect your body from the spread of bacteria and allergens by trapping germs.¹ Though congestion can make you feel uncomfortable and cause breathing difficulty, your body’s natural response is to mobilize mucus buildup in the lungs and cough—causing the phlegm to thin and loosen. You’ve […]

Manual Chest Physiotherapy (or chest physical therapy) requires the assistance of a caregiver or respiratory therapist to perform repeated clapping on a patient’s chest wall, also known as percussion.  The goal of chest physical therapy (CPT) is to help dislodge mucus in the lungs and then apply postural drainage techniques¹ to allow mucus to drain […]

Though air pollution is nothing new, this past summer has seen more than its fair share of wildfires and their effects on air quality. Such conditions are hazardous for everyone. However, the increase in smoky air can cause respiratory irritation and inflammation, worsening symptoms for those with chronic lung conditions. Even if you don’t live […]

Mucus and phlegm are natural substances our bodies produce to help protect and lubricate the respiratory system. But are they the same thing? Phlegm is indeed a type of mucus, but its presence, color, and consistency can tell you a lot about your lung health. Uncovering the Difference between Mucus and Phlegm A simple way […]

Can you think of a time when a tiny piece of food became stuck in your airways, blocking the natural flow of oxygen to the lungs? When most people think about airway obstruction, the first image that typically comes to mind is choking on food. However, trapped food is only one reason people experience this […]

When our bodies are exposed to different bacteria, viruses, dust, pollen, or smoke, their natural response is to produce excess mucus. This helps trap irritants in the nose or airways, stopping them from entering the lungs.¹ Following the production of excess mucus, the body then triggers a coughing reflex to help propel the mucus (and […]

When treating patients for a respiratory condition, you want to provide the best, most comfortable experience possible. If SmartVest is already a part of your hospital’s continuum of care program, then you can feel confident knowing that each patient will receive effective airway clearance treatment while in your care. About SmartVest The SmartVest Airway Clearance […]