If you or a loved one are suffering from a respiratory illness, you may wonder about using suction machines. Suction machines remove secretions and mucus from the upper airway and can help restore airway patency. We will answer some common questions about suction machines. We will cover topics such as how they work when they should be used, and how to care for them. This information will help you make an informed decision about whether or not a suction machine is suitable for you!
What Is a Suction Machine?
A suction machine is used to clear mucus, saliva, and other secretions from the upper airway of patients with respiratory illnesses. It applies negative pressure to the patient's throat and lungs, which causes the secretion to be drawn out. This can help improve the patient's breathing and relieve congestion or difficulty breathing.
Who Should Use a Suction Machine?
Here are some instances when suction machines can be beneficial:
1) Tracheostomy patients:
Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening in the trachea (windpipe) for ventilation or removal of secretions. In such cases, a suction machine clears mucus from the airways and restores airway patency.
2) People with severe pulmonary disorders:
People who suffer from respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis often experience an increase in the production of mucus, resulting in difficulty breathing. Suction machines can help to remove the excess secretions from their airways and prevent them from clogging up the airways.
3) People with neurological disorders:
Patients with cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis may have difficulty swallowing or controlling their secretions. Suction machines can help clear these secretions from their airways and restore airway patency.
4) People with neuromuscular conditions:
Patients with muscular dystrophy may experience an increase in the production of mucus, leading to difficulty breathing. Suction machines have a mouth suction pump to clear the airway and make breathing easier.
5) People suffering from head or neck trauma:
Trauma to these areas can cause a blockage in the airways due to tissue swelling. Suction machines can help to remove this blockage and restore airway patency.
What Are the Features To Check When Choosing a Suction Machine?
When choosing a portable suction machine, there are several features you should consider:
- The suctioning to be done (e.g., tracheal or nasopharyngeal). Depending on the patient's needs, different machines may be better suited to different types of suctioning.
- The type of suctioning device (e.g., manual or electric). This can be important for portability and ease of use.
- The amount of vacuum pressure required. This should be determined by the physician or other healthcare provider and will vary based on the patient’s condition.
Final Words
Call The Breathing Shop today to talk to our experts about the best suction machine for you or your loved one. The Breathing Shop offers free consultation by our respiratory therapist with 30+ years of experience using most respiratory products sold on The Breathing Shop. Our respiratory therapist can also help you set up and maintain your equipment.
