How to Use a Nebulizer

You have been diagnosed with an allergy or asthma that will require occasional or regular use of a nebulizer. The doctor has given you a prescription for the medication, and you know you will need to purchase the device. But, how do you use a nebulizer?

Using a nebulizer entails more than turning it on and following the directions for administration of the medication. You will need to know how to care for yourself and the machine, if it will continue to provide you the relief you often need so desperately. You will need to know:

·         About the Medication

·         How to Use the Machine

·         How to Care for the Machine Parts

I know it sounds cheesy, but if you take care of the machine, it will take care of you, or someone you love, for years to come.

Not all nebulizers are exactly the same, but all work by the same principle. So, I will tell you how I use mine, and it will give you a good idea of what to look for or expect in the operation of your machine.

Medication

First, not everyone who needs a nebulizer will use the same type of medication. Although it all comes in little vials, the contents are in different strengths and different ingredients.

Maybe I have been naive, but I found out that not all medication is created equal, when I complained to my doctor that it made me lightheaded and feeling really funny afterwards. I learned you are supposed to breathe easier, not feel like you are going to pass out or your extremities are all tingly. Change the dose, change the reaction.

Using the Machine

Regardless of the prescribed medication, nebulizers basically work the same. You hook a plastic tube to the appropriate connection and fill a little receptacle at the base of the breathing device. You often have the choice of a mask or mouthpiece to use while inhaling the medicated mist. If the nebulizer if for a child, the mask is great. An elastic strap will keep it in place, leaving the child's hands free to look at a book or play with a toy to help pass the time, until the treatment is finished.

Caring for the Parts

After the nebulizer treatment, it is very important to take care of the machine. First, you will need to make sure the oxygen tube is not kinked, or it can crack and be useless for future treatments. Then, be sure to thoroughly wash out the little medication receptacle. If you forget, the left over residue will dry very sticky and make it a real pain the next time you want to add the meds. Do not forget to check the filter in the machine. It is responsible for making sure the misty, medicated oxygen needed to clear your airways is also free of particles that are not healthy. Finally, when you store the nebulizer, make sure it is clean and the tube is rolled nicely, so the next time you desperately need to get a breath of air, it will be ready for you.