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May 18, 2013
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Clearing Your Lungs When You Have COPD: Side


Picture of the position for draining mucus from the side of your lungs

You can lie in different positions to help clear your lungs. To help drain mucus from the sides of your lungs, lie on one side. Place two or three pillows under your hips. Use a small pillow under your head. Rest your arms where they are comfortable. Make sure your chest is lower than your hips. Use belly breathing. After 5 or 10 minutes, switch sides.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerKen Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology
Last RevisedNovember 29, 2011

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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