Oscillating PEP is an airway clearance technique (ACT), where the person blows all the way out many times through a device. Commonly known by their brand names ( Acapella®, AerobikA®) These types of oscillating PEP devices work in two ways. First, they use resistance to make it more difficult to breathe out, like non-oscillating PEP devices. Oscillating PEP devices also create vibrations when you breathe out. The oscillation frequency and flow amplitude depend on the resistance and the expiratory force. The vibrations move mucus from the surface of your airways. After blowing through the device several times, the person huff coughs to clear the mucus from the lungs and out of the body.
Although your respiratory therapist may suggest a different way to use PEP based on your unique circumstances, typically, people perform 10 breaths before stopping to cough or huff cough mucus out of their airways. A typical session of PEP takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.
Aerobika
The aerobika is a small hand-held device for airway clearance. It has both resistive and vibratory features which helps loosen and clear secretions from your chest. It should be performed on a regular basis or as prescribed by your physiotherapist.
How to use your Aerobika
- Make sure you are comfortable seated or standing position or as advised by your physiotherapist
- Make sure you form a tight seal with your lips around the mouthpiece. Make sure your hand does not block the exhalation path on the back of the device
- Take a breath in, slightly bigger than your normal breath but not a full deep breath. Breathe in through your nose or your mouth.
- Hold your breath for approximately 2-3 seconds to allow air to get behing the mucus plug
- Breathe out through the aeobika actively but not forcefully as far as you feel comfortable
- Repeat 10-15 breaths or as percribed by your physiotherapist
- Finish each cycle with huffs or as advised by your physiotherapist and cough to clear the mucus