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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 Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Hasmeena Kathuria, MD - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine

Current as ofMarch 25, 2017

Current as of: March 25, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Hasmeena Kathuria, MD - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine