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How do you all maintain the mucus in your lungs during a flare up?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sperryville, VA
July 27
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members managing lung and sinus mucus during flares shared a variety of helpful strategies, including daily saline nasal rinses, Mucinex to... Read more

Members managing lung and sinus mucus during flares shared a variety of helpful strategies, including daily saline nasal rinses, Mucinex to thin mucus, and increasing water intake to help prevent infections. Several members mentioned prescribed treatments like Pulmicort, Albuterol inhalers, and the Acapella airway clearance device, while others suggested herbal teas like Yogi Breath Deep and Traditional Medicinals Breathe Easy as gentler options. A recurring theme was the importance of seeing specialists like a pulmonologist, ENT, or allergist to get personalized care, especially when symptoms are persistent or severe.

MyLupusTeam

Managing lung mucus during a lupus flare is something many people deal with. Lupus can cause inflammation that affects the respiratory system, making this a real concern.

Here are some strategies that may help:

- Stay hydrated — drinking plenty of cool water throughout the day can help thin mucus
- Try a sinus rinse — some Show Full Answer

Managing lung mucus during a lupus flare is something many people deal with. Lupus can cause inflammation that affects the respiratory system, making this a real concern.

Here are some strategies that may help:

- Stay hydrated — drinking plenty of cool water throughout the day can help thin mucus
- Try a sinus rinse — some people find daily rinses help keep airways clearer
- Use a humidifier — adding moisture to the air can ease congestion
- Try steam inhalation — a warm shower can help loosen mucus
- Ask about decongestants — if using them, try to limit use to under 7 days to avoid rebound congestion

It's really important to talk to your rheumatologist if respiratory symptoms are worsening during a flare, as it could signal that lupus activity needs better control. Treating the underlying flare effectively is often the best way to address these symptoms.

If symptoms are severe or persistent, don't wait — reach out to your care team sooner rather than later. 💙

July 27
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member yes ma’am I’ve been trying to increase my water intake. Which is actually really hard for me, but I’m trying

July 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

I saw a pulmonologist a few years ago and he put me on Pulmacort with a saline nasal rinse. I used it twice a day for a few weeks, then once a day for about a month. Now I only use it when I need it but it helped a lot with sinus issues including mucus in my throat. Take care.

August 3
A MyLupusTeam Member

My husband was prescribed an Albuterol inhaler and an Acapella device ( https://youtu.be/LMuv5v6M8Is?is=HFIQGKMNwb9R0rEE). Both have been helpful

August 1
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member thank you for that information. I really appreciate it!!

July 27

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