SmartVest Blog

In an independent, retrospective cohort analysis [1], data was collected and analyzed to assess the efficacy of high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) on Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis (NCFB) patients—before and after usage. Insurance claims data assessed key measures such as hospitalizations, treated pneumonia, and medication usage. Following the introduction of HFCWO vest therapy, the study […]

New to airway clearance? Living with a chronic lung condition, like bronchiectasis (brong-kee-EK-tuh-sis), makes breathing feel constricted. Though your clinician may prescribe different types of treatment to help you manage your symptoms—such as antibiotics or mucus-thinning medications [1]—airway clearance works to help treat the underlying cause of your chronic symptoms (i.e., mucus buildup).  When mucus […]

Consuming foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients, such as protein and fiber, allow our bodies to perform the essential tasks we depend on each day. One such task is breathing.  But did you know that certain foods can actually make breathing more difficult [1]? Oxygen and Food Oxygen plays an important […]

Winter is approaching…actually for many living in the Midwest, it’s already here! Though some of us look forward to the cozy nights in, with hot cocoa in hand in front of a warm fireplace, if you’re living with a chronic lung condition like bronchiectasis or COPD, your joy of the season may be mixed with […]

Short on breath? Living with a chronic lung condition can make your breathing feel constricted—especially during extreme weather changes that cause dryness (i.e., winter) or higher levels of humidity/allergens (i.e., spring and summer). To handle these common temperature fluctuations and keep your lungs filled with fresh—not stale—air, exercise is key. But let’s not limit our […]

Every time we take a breath, air enters our lungs and oxygen from the air moves from our lungs to our blood. Though each part of your respiratory system is essential, there is one area that may be overlooked. In this article, we’ll focus on the importance of cilia, tiny hair-like structures that help prevent […]

Starting a new airway clearance therapy is often met with questions, especially if this is your first respiratory vest or if you’ve had previous experiences with other brands. You may be wondering: Will therapy help me breathe easier? What if I feel uncomfortable in my vest? How long will I have to perform each session? […]

When you’re living with a chronic lung condition, such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, or bronchiectasis, certain particles in the air, whether natural or artificial, may trigger a worsening of symptoms. In this article, we’ll review the different types of air pollutants that can irritate your lungs. Next, we’ll share tips on how to avoid these […]

We all experience breathlessness for different reasons: playing tag with our grandchildren, working out at the local gym, or even going for a walk on a humid, 90-degree day can cause anyone to feel out of breath. Shortness of breath is not only an uncomfortable experience, but it’s also an unsettling one. If you’re living […]

Hospital administrations are feeling the pressure to reduce readmissions of patients experiencing frequent exacerbations of their chronic lung condition, like bronchiectasis or COPD.  Similarly, clinicians all over the country are challenged with finding the most effective treatment option to help patients so they can experience symptom relief and get back to living a healthy, active […]