Huff Cough
What is Huff Cough?
The Huff Cough is a certain way of coughing that keeps the throat open longer. This helps move the mucus from your lungs.
How does the Huff Cough work?
The huff cough helps get rid of mucus in your lungs. It works like this:
- It allows the air to move past the mucus in the airways
- The air helps move the mucus from the smaller airways to the larger airways
- Once the mucus is in the larger airways, it makes coughing the mucus out easier
How do you do a Huff Cough?
Follow these steps to do a Huff Cough:
- Sit up straight.
- Tilt your chin up slightly – this will help open your throat.
- Open your mouth.
- Take slightly deeper breaths than normal for 1 – 2 minutes.
- Take in a slow breath.
- Hold your breath for three seconds (this lets air get behind or below the mucus).
- Blow out evenly.
- Blow out a little longer than you normally would.
- Blow out until just before you feel the need to cough (try your best not to).
- Repeat this process (steps 1-7) two more times.
- Cough normally to get rid of mucus.
This could be repeated if necessary.
When should I do Huff Coughs?
Huff coughs should be used:
- Any time a cough is needed
- During and after any airway clearance
Helpful Hints
- Remember to keep your throat wide open when blowing out
- If you hear “wheezing” sounds, try to breathe out more softly
- Practice with small, medium and large breaths
Contact Us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Rev. 6/09
