5. I coughed the PMV™ off my tracheostomy tube because I had secretions that needed to be removed and now my tracheostomy tube and/or mouth have been suctioned and the PMV is put back on my tracheostomy tube. As soon as the PMV is put back on my tube, I start to cough very hard and cannot seem to stop and/or the PMV pops off again. What should I do?

(Continued)

It is important to note and tell your doctor when the coughing began. Did it start immediately the first time you wore the valve and has never improved? Did it begin several weeks after you first began to utilize the PMV? Were there any changes made regarding your airway that may have triggered the coughing such as a tracheostomy tube change? Does your cough sound wet or dry? These questions will help you and your doctor to discover the possible causes of your discomfort and lead to remedies that will allow you to continue PMV use. Do not use the PMV again until you receive clearance by your doctor.

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