We Know: All About Nebulizers What is a nebulizer? A nebulizer is a machine for getting medicine into the lungs. It makes a mixture of liquid medicine and water into a mist that a person then inhales (through a mask or a mouthpiece). Who needs a nebulizer? Nebulizers are often used for babies and children too small to be able to coordinate using a metered dose inhaler. They are also sometimes used for people having severe asthma symptoms, as many people find it easier to take in the medicine this way when they are having a lot of trouble breathing. For what conditions are nebulizers used? Nebulizers are used to treat asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other conditions where inhaled medicines are indicated. How do I use a nebulizer? Attach the tubing from the compressor to the cup. Put the medicine in the cup and attach a mouthpiece or mask. Turn the compressor on and a fine mist should form. If using the mouthpiece, close your mouth completely around it. Some people like to use nose plugs. Take slow, deep breaths and do not talk until the medicine is gone. Keep the cup upright at all times, tapping it if the medicine sputters. The treatment lasts about 10-15 minutes. How do I care for a nebulizer? Most home nebulizers consist of a compressor, or motor attached to a hose and nebulizer cup. The compressor's only function is to pump air to the nebulizer cup. It should be kept clean and free of dust. There is usually an intake filter that should be changed regularly. Any bacteria in the cup can end up in your lungs, so keep it clean. After each nebulizer treatment, take apart the cup and mouthpiece, soak them in warm soapy water for about 15 minutes, rinse carefully and allow to air dry. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines on the package insert for information on how long the cup should last before being thrown away.
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