Aerobika device

Patient information factsheet

This leaflet should be used alongside the manufacturer’s manual (this should come with your device) and the advice from your Physiotherapist.

What is an Aerobika device and how does it work?

• The Aerobika is a device that helps you to remove phlegm (mucus) from your lungs.
• It is an oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device that works by:
  • Providing resistance when you breathe out through it.
  • This helps push air behind the mucus, so it is easier to cough up.
  • It also helps keep your airways open.

Why have I been given an OPEP device?

• In certain lung conditions, such as bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) the airways can produce more phlegm than usual.
• Physiotherapists might provide you with an OPEP device if they think it will be helpful for you to clear excess phlegm from your lungs.

Why do I need to clear phlegm from my airways?

Regularly removing the excess phlegm from your lungs can help:

• Reduce the amount you cough during the day. Having lots of phlegm in your airways can irritate them and make you to cough.
• Reduce the number of chest infections you get.
• It helps keep your airways clear so you can breathe more easily and do everyday activities more comfortably.

How should I use the Aerobika device?

1. Sit in a comfortable position. This might be in a chair, or lying on your side if your Physiotherapist has told you to.
2. Make sure your device is set to the resistance level your Physiotherapist prescribed.
3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece.
4. Keep your cheeks held in to maximise the vibration felt in your lungs.
5. Make sure you are not covering the exhalation port on the back of the Aerobika.
6. Take a slightly larger than usual breath in through your nose, hold your breath for 2 seconds, and then blow out through your mouth with the Aerobika for about 4 to 6 seconds. Do this until you are still comfortable but not until your lungs feel completely empty. You will feel vibrations in your lungs. Try to avoid coughing straight away. Complete 8 to 10 breaths in total.
7. Take the Aerobika out of your mouth and do 4 to 5 normal relaxed breaths.
8. Complete a few huffs to move the mucus up to your throat and cough and clear when the mucus is ready. The huffing technique is like steaming a mirror with your mouth in a wide “O” shape.
9. You should repeat all the above steps as many times as needed until you feel your lungs are clear, for a maximum of 20 minutes.

My personal airway clearance plan

• My prescribed resistance setting: _________
• Make sure your Aerobika is always set to this number.
• Do not change it unless instructed by your Physiotherapist.

How long to spend using it and how often?

How does this fit in with my inhalers or nebulisers?

How do I look after my Aerobika?

• You should clean your Aerobika every day, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
• A lot of people find it best to clean it before they go to bed.
• First, separate the Aerobika into the 4 parts.

To handwash:

1. Soak the Aerobika fully covered with warm soapy water for 15 minutes. Stir it gently.
2. Rinse the parts with running warm water.
3. Shake off any water. Leave to dry completely on a clean surface before putting the pieces back together.

To clean in a dishwasher:

1. Place the 4 parts on the top shelf of the dishwasher. Do not wash the Aerobika at the same time as you are washing very dirty plates.
2. Leave to dry completely on a clean surface before putting the pieces back together.

• You can also disinfect the Aerobika, for example by boiling it or using a steam steriliser. The instructions are in the manufacturers guide. It is typically recommended to complete this monthly.

• You must also check the condition of your Aerobika regularly, and it should be replaced every 12 months.

• If you feel there are any problems, please contact your Physiotherapist. Contact your GP if you do not regularly see a respiratory Physiotherapist.

When should I stop using the Aerobika?

You should stop using the Aerobika and talk to a health professional if:

• You cough up blood after using it.
• Your breathing gets more difficult after using it.
• You are having any neck, throat or lung surgery.
• You feel very dizzy after using the Aerobika.

Contact our service

• Call us on 0207 288 5660 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm or
• email whh-tr.outpatienttherapy@nhs.net.