What is a nebulizer and who needs it?

A nebulizer is a medical device which is used to deliver liquid drugs in the form of mist for improved and quick  absorption. The inhalation of mist is through a mask or mouthpiece.

Nebulizers are a good choice for administering medication, especially for infants or small children with asthma.
Nebulizers may take a little while to work compared to inhalers but they have been more effective.

The benefits of using nebulizers are:

1. It helps to relieve symptoms caused by asthma.
2. Clears congestion and blockages of lungs or nose.
3. Effective medication delivery

Examples of drugs used in nebulizers include:

1. Bronchodilators: Drugs that help in dilating/broadening the airways.
2. Corticosteroids: drugs that are used to fight inflammation
3. Medical-grade saline solutions: Solutions that facilitate breaking of mucus plugs in the lungs
4. Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics to treat or prevent the respiratory infections.

Types of nebulizers:

There are three different kinds of nebulizers:

• Jet Nebulizers: These are the most commonly used nebulizers which use compressed gas to make aerosolized medications.
• Ultrasonic Nebulizers: These nebulizers are used in hospitals and are not suitable for personal use as they use high frequency vibrations to make aerosols.
• Mesh Nebulizers: These are more recent form of nebulizers that generate aerosols by using mesh caps with microscopic openings.

Who needs a nebulizer?

Nebulizers are required for those patients suffering from:

1. COPD: COPD refers to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease that causes obstruction of airflow from the lungs.
2. Asthma: A condition wherein the airways are shown to be narrowing in addition to edema and excessive mucus production
3. Cystic Fibrosis: A fatal genetically inherited condition that harms the lungs and digestive system and has an impact on the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices.
4. Bronchitis: In bronchitis, the lining of the bronchial tubes, which transport air to and from your lungs, become inflamed.
5. Bronchiectasis: A long-term disorder where the airways enlarge, which causes an accumulation of extra mucus to make the lungs more susceptible to infections.
6. Pulmonary Fibrosis: A condition of the lungs where the lung tissue is mutilated and scarred.
7. Certain Respiratory Infections

Parts of a Nebulizer

The different components of a nebulizer are:

1. Mouthpiece
2. Mask
3. Medication Cup
4. Plastic Tubing
5. Compressor

Given that the patient must breathe slowly, it may take 10 to 15 minutes for the nebulizer to start working effectively. When it comes to infants with asthma, they are among the easiest to utilize.

How to use a nebulizer?

After collecting all the parts of the nebulizers, follow these steps:

1. Plug the Compressor into the power socket while positioning it on a level surface.
2. Wash and properly dry your hands after giving them a good scrub with soap and water.
3. Fill the nebulizer cup with the medication. The majority of them include vials for measuring the unit dose. Use a separate, clean measuring device specifically for measuring medication if you must do it yourself.
4. Put the nebulizer, mask, and mouthpiece together.
5. Connect the tube to the nebulizer cup and the compressor.
6. Turn on the compressor to check for efficient functioning. There is a faint mist emerging from the tube &’s back.
7. Straighten out your back in the chair and relax. Ask your youngster to sit on your lap if they intend to use this. Put on your mask if you’re using one. Ensure that it is safe and secure. If you’re using a mouthpiece, seal your lips around it and place it in between your child’s and your teeth.
8. Take deep, slow breaths. Before exhaling, hold each breath for two to three seconds. This allows the drug to enter your airways and take effect.
9. Continue until the effects of the drug wear off. A noise from the nebulizer may serve as a signal.
10. If you feel nervous or uneasy, stop the therapy and take a five-minute break. Inform your doctor if the problem still exists.

We are Jajoo Surgicals – one of India’s leading manufacturers, exporters, and suppliers of medical, surgical disposable, and hygiene products. Our product range includes cotton and gauze products, tapes, gloves, orthopedic, nebulizers, sterilization rolls, and various hygiene products. We distribute PAN India and export worldwide.