Answers to your most commonly asked questions about nebulizers.
A nebulizer is a device that turns the liquid medicine into a mist which is then inhaled through a mouthpiece or a mask. Sometimes asthma medication is given through a nebulizer as well, so this information can benefit people living with asthma too.
A nebulizer can be a smaller portable device or a plug-in tabletop machine you use at home. You will need a prescription from your healthcare provider to get a nebulizer. Check with your health plan to see if it will cover the cost of the device.
Nebulizer treatment relaxes the breathing muscles and permits air to flow more easily in and out of the lungs. It also helps to loosen mucous in the lungs. Both of these benefits of nebulizer treatment help to decrease and prevent wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and tightness in the chest.
According to Children's Wisconsin, the medications used in nebulizers help your child by loosening the mucus in the lungs so it can be coughed out more easily, and by relaxing the airway muscles so that more air can move in and out of the lungs. Breathing the medication straight into the lungs works better and faster than taking the medication by mouth.
After your nebulization session, don't sterilize the ampoules using heat, as they're made with polycarbonate or plastic. They're materials that are sensitive to heat and you could damage them if you immerse them in boiling water. They would certainly be immaculately clean, but you would have to replace them.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing. Increase in blood pressure.