Nebulizers have been used for many years to help treat a variety of respiratory illnesses. They are especially beneficial for people who suffer from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of nebulizers and the conditions they treat.
What Is A Nebulizer
A nebulizer turns liquid medicine into small droplets (in the form of aerosol or mist) that can be inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask. Many drugs can be delivered using nebulizers. The medications and moisture aid in the treatment of breathing issues such as wheezing and the loosening of lung secretions.
Nebulizers And What They Treat
A nebulizer is a medical device that’s used to turn liquid medication into a fine mist that can be inhaled. It’s often prescribed for people who have asthma or other lung conditions.
Commonly treated conditions include:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Emphysema
Nebulizers are also sometimes used to deliver emergency medications to people who are having a severe asthma attack and need immediate relief.
How Nebulizers Work
Nebulizers produce a fine mist of medication that’s inhaled through a mouthpiece or face mask. The medication goes directly to the airways and lungs, so it’s able to work quickly.
Nebulizers can be powered by electricity or batteries. Some models are small enough to be portable, so they can be used anywhere.
What Are The Requirements For Using A Nebulizer?
The following items will be required:
- Mouthpiece or face mask
- Air compressor
- Hand-held nebulizer
Using a nebulizer is generally pretty simple. The medication is placed in the device, and then it’s turned on. The mist of medication is inhaled through the mouthpiece or face mask. The entire process usually takes about 10 minutes.
What Is The Best Place To Utilize The Nebulizer?
In a well-lit place, use the nebulizer. Choose a quiet area in your home where you may focus on your therapy without being disturbed. When receiving treatment, straight-backed chair, sit in a comfortable.
Steps On How To Use A Nebulizer
- Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent infection.
- Check that the air compressor is turned off and unplugged.
- Remove the cover from the medicine cup and add your prescribed medication to the cup.
- Replace the cover on the medicine cup.
- Connect one end of the tubing to the medicine cup and the other end to the air compressor.
- Turn on the air compressor.
- Place the mouthpiece of the nebulizer in your mouth and breathe normally until the medication is gone (about 5-10 minutes).
- When finished, turn off the air compressor and disconnect the tubing from the nebulizer.
- Wash the nebulizer cup and mouthpiece with soap and warm water.
- Allow the nebulizer to air dry before storing it.
Cleaning A Nebulizer
It’s important to clean your nebulizer regularly. If it isn’t cleaned, the medication can become contaminated with bacteria. That could lead to an infection.
To clean your nebulizer
- Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see how to disassemble the device.
- Wash the nebulizer parts in warm, soapy water.
- Rinse the parts well and allow them to air dry.
- Reassemble the nebulizer.
You should also disinfect the nebulizer regularly There are special solutions made for this purpose. Or you can use a mixture of 1 part distilled vinegar to 3 parts boiling water. Soak all the parts of the nebulizer in this solution for at least 30 minutes, then rinse well with warm water and air dry.
Storing A Nebulizer
When you’re not using the nebulizer, it’s important to store it properly. Most nebulizers come with a storage bag. Be sure to keep all the parts in the bag so they don’t get misplaced.
It’s also a good idea to write the date on the storage bag when you first start using the nebulizer. That way you’ll know how long it’s been since the nebulizer was last cleaned or replaced.
Nebulizers And Asthma
If you have asthma, your doctor may prescribe a nebulizer for you to use at home. Nebulizers can be particularly helpful for young children who have asthma. That’s because they may not be able to use an inhaler correctly.
Nebulizers are also sometimes used in emergencies someone is having a severe asthma attack and needs medication right away.
If you have asthma, it’s important to learn how to use your nebulizer properly. Be sure to follow all the instructions from your doctor or respiratory therapist. With proper care, a nebulizer can be a valuable tool in managing your asthma.