•  
  •  

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.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Ken Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology
Last Revised November 29, 2011

Last Revised: November 29, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Ken Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.