Nebulizer Treatments for Patients with Respiratory Problems

Nebulizers are devices that assist the delivery of medication to the lungs and airways. Nebulizers turn liquid medication into aerosol droplets that can be easily inhaled. This is useful for the treatment of a variety of respiratory conditions.

Types of Nebulizers

There are quite a few different nebulizers available for patients. These are designed for use with different types of medications. The two main types are:

• Jet Nebulizers – these use compressed gas to turn liquid medicine into a mist for inhalation. They are straightforward to use but a significant percentage of the drug (up to 10%) can be wasted during expiration.

• Ultrasonic Nebulizers – these devices use ultrasonic vibrating crystals to transform liquid medication. Ultrasonic nebulizers are typically quieter and more compact than the jet versions. These devices can also be fitted with adaptive aerosol delivery systems. This means they can deliver a precise dose of medication with less wastage.

Uses of Nebulizers

Nebulizers are used in a variety of clinical situations. They are suitable for both emergency and long-term treatment of respiratory conditions. Nebulizers can be used by patients suffering from the following conditions:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - nebulizers are widely used to treat the serious symptoms of COPD. The vapour driven medication has been shown to assist patients with expectoration and improve mucus viscosity.

• Cystic Fibrosis - nebulizers can be used to deliver corticosteroid and bronchodilator treatments to the lungs of patients suffering from cystic fibrosis.

• Bronchiectasis – nebulizers can help to minimise inflammation of the airways which can affect respiratory function in bronchiectasis cases.

• Asthma – although nebulizers are no longer used as a primary treatment device for acute asthma they are still recommended for severe asthma attacks. Some patients also prefer nebulizers to the more modern methods of metered-dose inhalers. Nebulizers are useful for patients suffering from asthma that have limited mobility and are unable to use inhaler devices comfortably.

Using Nebulizers

Patients using nebulizers will need to clean them daily if in regular usage. If you only use them now and again you should clean them after each use. To do this you need to remove the mouthpiece, chamber and mask and wash them in warm water and mild detergent. Let the pieces dry thoroughly before you reassemble.

You will need to replace the mouthpiece, mask and tubing every 3 to 4 months if in constant usage. You will need to contact the original provider of your nebulizers for replacement parts. Make sure you only used approved parts on your nebulizer.

When using the nebulizer make sure you run it for a few moments and make sure all the sections are fitted correctly before you add the medication. This can help to reduce wastage.