Long term management of airway secretions and bronchospasm in chronic obstructive lung disease

Hydration, antibiotics, and postural drainage to control bronchial secretions and the use of bronchodilators to relive bronchospasm help patients lead more normal lives. The value of using ancillary procedures such as physical reconditioning, breathing exercises, and intensive respiratory care in ambulatory patients is discussed. Patients with negligible bronchial secretions and no bronchospasm pose a difficult therapeutic dilemma and usually do not benefit from any type of therapy.