A treatment in which medications are converted into a mist and delivered directly to the lungs through breathing. Used for asthma, COPD, and acute bronchospasm.
Indication
- Rapid control of bronchospasm (airway narrowing) during an asthma attack
- Exacerbations of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Acute bronchitis and bronchiolitis
- Croup (laryngotracheobronchitis) and upper-airway edema
- Mucolytic delivery in cases of heavy sputum buildup
- Alternative therapy for infants and children unable to use inhalers
- Follow-up of cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis
Preparation
- A mask that fits the face properly or a mouthpiece is selected
- The device and chamber must be clean; the medication is prepared at the dose recommended by the physician
- The patient is seated in an upright position
- Application immediately after meals is avoided (it may trigger coughing)
How it's performed
- The prescribed medication (salbutamol, budesonide, ipratropium, or combinations) is placed in the chamber within saline solution
- The device is started and the medication is converted into a fine particle mist
- The patient breathes deeply and slowly through the mask or mouthpiece, briefly holding each breath
- The procedure usually lasts 8-15 minutes; it continues until the chamber is empty
- Pulse and breathing are monitored during treatment; supplemental oxygen is added if needed
- After application, the chamber and mask are rinsed with water
Post-procedure
- After treatment, the mouth and face are rinsed with water (especially with steroid-containing medications, to reduce thrush risk)
- Improvement in shortness of breath, wheezing, and oxygen levels is assessed
- Palpitations, tremor, or dizziness should be reported to the physician
- In chronic conditions, a long-term inhaler treatment plan is arranged
Risks
- Palpitations and mild tremor (especially with beta-agonists such as salbutamol)
- Dry mouth, throat irritation, hoarseness
- Oral fungal infection (thrush) with steroid-containing medications
- Cardiac rhythm disturbance in patients with hypertension and arrhythmia (rare)
- Temporary skin redness on the face under the mask
FAQ
Will I feel pain during nebulizer therapy?
No, the application is painless. You only need to breathe in and out through the mask or mouthpiece.
Can I apply the treatment at home?
It can be applied at home with a personal device on physician advice; the dose, medication, and frequency must be determined by the physician.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, with the correct dose and an appropriate mask, it is widely used in infants and children; adult supervision is required during application.
How quickly does it start working?
Bronchodilator medications usually begin to take effect within 5-15 minutes; full response is assessed at 30-60 minutes.
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