26/10/2025
James was recently unwell and had to go see the team at a&e in the childrens hospital. All was okay however he needed the help of a cough assist machine. He now has this as part of his daily routine.
🫁 Cough Assist in Duchenne: What to Know
As Duchenne progresses, the breathing muscles (especially the diaphragm and chest muscles) become weaker. That makes it harder to take a deep breath or cough strongly enough to clear mucus.
A cough assist machine steps in to do the heavy lifting — helping keep lungs clear and reducing the risk of chest infections.
A cough assist machine helps clear mucus from the lungs when the breathing muscles are too weak to do it on their own. It gently blows air in and then quickly sucks it out, like a strong artificial cough. It’s a really important part of keeping the lungs healthy in Duchenne — especially during colds or chest infections.
💙 What It Usually Feels Like
A strong “whoosh” of air in and out
Sometimes makes you cough or your cheeks puff out
It might feel strange at first, but most people get used to it quickly
⚠️ Possible Problems to Watch For
These don’t happen often, but it’s good to know about them:
1. Dry Nose or Throat – Airflow can make your nose or throat feel dry or tickly.
💡 Tip: Try using a humidifier or a bit of saline spray.
2. Nosebleeds – Can happen if the air is too dry or the pressure is high.
💡 Tip: Let the care team know; small adjustments usually fix it.
3. Tummy Full of Air (Burping or Feeling Bloated) – Sometimes air goes into the stomach.
💡 Tip: Check that pressures aren’t too high and that the mask fits well.
4. Chest Pain or Trouble Breathing (Very Rare) – Could mean a small air leak in the lung (pneumothorax).
🚨 Call your doctor or go to A&E right away if this happens.
5. Feeling Light-headed or Dizzy – The fast air changes can sometimes make people feel woozy.
💡 Tip: Pause and rest between cycles if needed.
6. Scared or Uncomfortable at First – The machine can feel strange until you get used to it.
💡 Tip: Try short sessions, and have someone reassuring nearby.
🧡 Keeping It Safe
Always use the settings your physio or respiratory team gave you.
Make sure the mask or mouthpiece fits snugly but comfortably.
If your child has trouble swallowing, do the cough assist while sitting upright and have suction nearby if needed.
Let your care team know about any bleeding, pain, or unusual symptoms.
Keep the machine clean and filters replaced as recommended.
🌬️ The Bottom Line
If coughing is becoming weak, infections are happening more often, or breathing feels more effortful — it’s time to talk to your respiratory team about starting or increasing cough assist.
Cough assist is one of the best tools to keep lungs clear and prevent infections in Duchenne. Problems are rare — and if you start slow, follow your care team’s advice, and pay attention to how your child feels, it’s a very safe and effective way to help them breathe easier.
It’s better to start early and build confidence than to wait until breathing becomes a struggle.
