Respiratory Devices

ALS Respiratory Devices

Your ALS clinic or medical team will monitor your breathing, provide respiratory support, and prescribe the right respiratory devices at the right time. Using respiratory devices can improve your quality of life and help you live longer.

These are the most common types of respiratory devices that help people living with ALS:

A bilevel (BiPAP) is a small breathing machine that delivers pressurized air through a face mask to assist with both inhaling and exhaling, primarily during sleep.

A portable ventilator (Trilogy) can help you breathe either noninvasively (via a mask) or invasively (via a trach). It has a bilevel mode for sleeping and daytime breathing support.

A cough assist machine helps your breathing by clearing phlegm and fluid-like secretions from your lungs. Using it daily can also help condition the diaphragm muscle, even if no secretions are present.

A suction machine is a simple device, similar to the wand at the dentist’s office, that uses suction to remove excess mucus and saliva from your mouth.

This guide was created by Your ALS Guide, an educational website for families impacted by ALS.

At ALS United Chicago, our commitment extends to providing comprehensive support for those affected by ALS, focusing significantly on respiratory care. Respiratory equipment is crucial for ALS patients as the disease progresses, affecting muscular function and breathing. Our page dedicated to ALS respiratory devices aims to educate and inform patients, families, and caregivers about the different types of respiratory support available, including mechanical ventilators, cough assist devices, and more. We emphasize the importance of early intervention and tailored respiratory solutions to enhance the quality of life for those living with ALS. Through our ALS Clinics and Centers, we offer access to the latest respiratory devices and personalized care plans, ensuring that each individual's unique needs are met. Join us in exploring the options and resources that can make a meaningful difference in the ALS journey.