A nebulizer is a piece of medical equipment that a person with asthma or another respiratory condition can use to administer medication directly and quickly to the lungs.

A nebulizer turns liquid medicine into a very fine mist that a person can inhale through a face mask or mouthpiece. Taking medicine this way allows it to go straight into the lungs and the respiratory system where it is needed.

Who needs a nebulizer?

A range of medical conditions may require a person to use a nebulizer.

Doctors typically prescribe nebulizers to people with one of the following lung disorders:

1. asthma
2. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
3. cystic fibrosis
4. bronchiectasis

Sometimes, a doctor will prescribe a nebulizer for a child who has a respiratory infection, such as bronchiolitis.

How to use a nebulizer?

Before a person starts taking medicine with a nebulizer, a doctor or nurse will explain how the nebulizer works and answer any questions.

If a person receives their nebulizer from a pharmacy or medical equipment company, someone there will explain how to use it.

Each nebulizing machine operates a little differently. It is crucial to read the instructions for the particular device that the doctor has prescribed.

In general, a nebulizer is very easy to use, with only a few basic steps:

1. Wash the hands.
2. Add the medicine to the medicine cup, according to the doctor's prescription.
3. Assemble the top piece, tubing, mask, and mouthpiece.
4. Attach the tubing to the machine, according to the instructions.
5. Turn the nebulizer on; they can be battery- or electrically powered.
6. While using the nebulizer, hold the mouthpiece and medicine cup upright to help deliver all the medication.
7. Take slow, deep breaths through the mouthpiece and inhale all the medicine.

Please speak with the doctor or call the manufacturer with any questions or concerns about the device.

from www.medicalnewstoday.com