What is a Nebulizer?

The prevalence of the use of nebulizers has increased significantly in the last decade.  This is due, at least in part, to the rising occurrence of lung diseases and disorders, particularly asthma, and specifically, childhood asthma.  In fact, it is estimated that one in four urban children are affected by asthma.

Asthma is defined as chronic inflammation of the lungs.  It affects the bronchi (airways) and causes them to become narrowed.  This narrowing is reversible with medication.  In many cases of childhood asthma a sufferer simply outgrows the condition. 

It is not known exactly what causes asthma, though exposure to secondhand smoke and other contaminants/pollutants is thought to be one major cause.  It's also unknown why some children outgrow the conditions while others suffer it for a lifetime.  It is also possible to develop asthma at any point in life, not just in childhood.

Asthma and sudden asthma attacks can be controlled and treated with medication, known as bronchodilators, which expand the bronchi.  The medication must be delivered directly to the lungs and therefore must be inhaled.  A nebulizer is one way of getting that medication to the lungs.

Asthma medication comes in liquid form.  In order to be inhaled, it must be broken down into fine particles (mist.)  A nebulizer is an electronic device that takes the liquid medication and breaks it down into a mist so that it can be inhaled by a patient. 

The device consists of several parts.  The main component is the air compressor.  It must be plugged into a power outlet.  The compressor is connected to a nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece by plastic tubing.

The liquid medication is measured into the nebulizer cup.  (Many asthma medications come in pre-measured doses, eliminating the need to measure and helping to prevent dosage mistakes.)  The machine is turned on and the compressor pushes air through the tubing.  It atomizes the liquid in the nebulizer cup.  The patient inhales the mist that is formed through the mouthpiece or mask.

Nebulizers come in two types.  Home units are larger and meant for use at home.  This is the style that is also used in hospitals.  Nebulizers also come in smaller, portable styles, which are easier to travel with.  They are typically battery powered so that they can be used even when there is no electrical power available.

Nebulizers are not the only mechanisms that can deliver asthma medication to a patient.  Most asthma sufferers are prescribed inhalers, which are more convenient to use than nebulizers and are usually adequate for treating the condition and even for sudden attacks.

Nebulizers can typically be purchased only with a doctor's prescription.  They are often prescribed for very young children who are unable to work an asthma inhaler.  The mask attachment is generally used for young children.  The mask is placed over the child's nose and mouth, creating a seal and ensuring that the child actually inhales the medication. 

Nebulizers are also prescribed to patients who tend to suffer frequent and/or more serious asthma attacks.  Medication dosage and delivery is easier to control with a nebulizer.  Those who tend to suffer frequent and serious attacks get more effective treatment from using a nebulizer, though they may still use inhalers in combination with nebulizer treatment.