What is a Nebuliser?

A nebuliser is a specialist medical device that’s able to turn a liquid medication into a   fine mist. This mist can then be inhaled, via a mouthpiece, into a patient’s lungs where it can treat a number of acute and chronic conditions. Nebulisers are commonly used both on hospital wards, and at home by patients living with long term lung disease.

Nebuliser therapy can be incredibly beneficial to people suffering from a number of respiratory diseases. Non-invasive and pain-free, nebulisers can help to improve the quality of life of patients living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma and other conditions that make breathing a challenge. 

Types of Nebulizers

There are two main types of nebulisers: jet nebulisers and ultrasonic nebulisers. 

Ultrasonic nebulisers use high-frequency vibrations to create the aerosolised medication, while jet nebulisers use an air compressor. Ultrasonic nebulisers are expensive and generally only found in hospitals, while jet nebulisers such as Biomedex CA-MI Speedymed are more affordable and so are the most common type used to treat patients at home.

Who Is a Nebuliser Used For?

Nebulisers are used to treat patients with a range of conditions. Some of the most common are:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Asthma
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Respiratory tract infections
• Coronavirus

Nebulisers are often used by patients in long term care and by those who are unable to use an inhaler like small children and the elderly. Overall, a nebulizer is primarily utilized by people with respiratory issues to help manage their condition and alleviate symptoms.

 

How to Use Your Nebuliser

Every nebulizer functions slightly differently, so it's essential to carefully review the instructions provided for the specific device prescribed by your doctor. Despite these variations, using a nebulizer typically involves just a few straightforward steps that we recommend:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Pour medication into the nebulizer cup or follow instructions for mixing medications.
3. Assemble the nebuliser by attaching tubing to the machine and connect the mask/mouthpiece.
4. Place mask over nose and mouth or hold mouthpiece securely in mouth (It’s important to form a tight seal between your mouth and the mask or mouthpiece)
5. Start the Nebulizer.
6. Breathe normally, inhaling mist deeply and slowly.
7. Using the nebuliser normally takes between 10 and 15 minutes.

 

How to Clean Your Nebuliser

Cleaning your nebulizer is essential to maintain its effectiveness and prevent bacterial contamination. Here's how we recommend you clean your nebulizer:

1. Disassemble the Nebulizer by removing the mask or mouthpiece, tubing and medicine cup.
2. Wash all parts with warm water to remove residue.
3. Use mild soap and water to scrub parts gently.
4. Air dry all parts thoroughly on a clean towel or paper towel.
5. Put the nebulizer back together, by connecting the tubing to the machine and attaching the mask or mouthpiece.
6. Keep it clean in a dry place.

Perform a regular maintenance by cleaning after each use and conduct a more thorough cleaning weekly or as advised.

 

Is a Nebuliser the Same as an Inhaler?

While both inhalers and nebulisers are used to deliver medication straight to a patient’s lungs, they are not the same. Here are the main differences between the two:

Inhalers:

• Inhalers are highly effective for delivering medication quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for immediate relief of symptoms or for managing sudden flare-ups.
• They're convenient and portable, allowing users to carry them wherever they go and use them whenever needed.
• Inhalers require proper technique for effective use, so it's essential for users to learn the correct inhalation method to ensure the medication reaches the lungs effectively.

Nebulizers:

• Nebulizers are great for delivering larger doses of medication over a longer period, offering a continuous stream of mist for patients to inhale via a mouthpiece or face mask. Making them suitable for people who need continuous or frequent treatment.
• They're helpful for individuals who may have difficulty using inhalers properly, such as young children or the elderly.

 

This ease of use makes nebulisers popular with patients in long term care as well as those treating themselves at home.

What Medication is Used in a Nebuliser?

Nebulizer medicines, also known as nebulizer solutions or medications, are liquid medications specifically formulated to be administered through a nebulizer.

Common types of nebulizer medications include:

• Bronchodilators: These medications help to open the airways by relaxing the muscles around the air passages. Examples include albuterol (salbutamol), levalbuterol, and ipratropium bromide.
• Corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medications help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the airways. Examples include budesonide and fluticasone.
• Antibiotics: These medications are used to treat respiratory infections caused by bacteria. Examples include gentamicin and tobramycin.
• Mucolytics: These medications help to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Examples include hypertonic saline and dornase alfa.
• Combination Medications: Some nebulizer medications contain a combination of bronchodilators and corticosteroids to provide both immediate relief and long-term control of respiratory symptoms.

At Medshop, we prioritize your health and well-being. It's imperative to adhere strictly to the prescribed usage instructions for nebulizer medications, as directed by your healthcare provider. Dosage and frequency may vary based on the medication and your unique medical condition. Always follow the guidance provided with the medication, and don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment regimen.

 

What Type of Machine is a Nebuliser?

A nebuliser is a specially made medical device that’s used to turn liquid medication into a fine, breathable mist. It can be used both in hospitals and in the home.

Nebulisers are generally made up of four sections, the nebuliser chamber, the air compressor (this is the main part of the nebuliser machine), a length of tubing and a face mask or mouthpiece.

Why Does a Nebuliser Not Work for Everyone?

Because nebulisers work with a patient’s natural breathing, they’re suitable for most people, even the very old and the very young. However, not all types of medication can be administered via a nebuliser, so if a patient’s medicine can’t be given by nebuliser, they may need to find an alternative treatment plan. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out which treatment option is best for you.

What Are the Side Effects of a Nebuliser? 

In general, nebulisers are very safe, and most patients won’t experience any significant side effects. The most common side effects of nebuliser treatment are rapid heartbeat, jitteriness and anxiety. Less common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting and throat irritation.

To find out more about nebulisers and lung health, explore our collection of nebulisers and accessories or get in touch with a member of our team today.

Author: Steven John Cumper, B.App.SC. (Osteo.), M.Ost., is a businessman with a strong foundation in biomedical science and osteopathic medicine, who founded and led Medshop to international success, culminating in its acquisition by the Bunzl Group in September 2021, where he continues to serve as Managing Director (Medshop Group).