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Nebulizers are medical devices that change liquid medications into fine mists and are usually recommended for patients with certain lung diseases, such as asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Nebulizers in Mukundapur usually consist of small plastic bowls with a screw-top lid and a compressed air source that plugs into an electrical outlet. The compressor in the nebulizer changes the liquid into mist, reaching the small airways more effectively using the mouthpiece or a mask, thus enhancing the efficacy of the medication.
Nebulizers can come in both portable, i.e., you can carry them in a bag or a briefcase and they are operated with car batteries or by plugging them into a car outlet, and tabletop or home nebulizers, which are large and are plugged into an electrical outlet. A nebulizer is similar to an inhaler. However, a nebulizer has its pros, such as its feasibility, mostly in young children, and clear visualisation of mist, although they take longer to deliver medication, typically around 5-10 minutes. Our specialist will guide you on how to use a nebulizer, and also provide personalised advice on managing your specific respiratory condition effectively.
Some medications specialists prescribe for Nebulized Therapy include:
Bronchodilators for opening the airways, which include Albuterol or Xopenex
Hypertonine Saline to clear mucus present in airways
Pulmozyne (DNAse) to reduce mucus thickening
Antibiotics, such as Colistin or TOBI, to treat bacterial infections
Steroids, such as budesonide and fluticasone reduce airway inflammation
Before using the Nebulizer, you should be familiar with its associated components, which include a compressor, plastic tubing, mouthpiece or mask, and medicine cup. Some Nebulizers have different operating mechanisms. However, general operating steps include:
Washing your hands and adding the prescribed medication to the medicine cup
Attaching the medicine cup, followed by mask or mouthpiece to the compressor
Sitting upright for effective medication delivery and placing the mask or mouthpiece appropriately
Switching the compressor on and waiting for a few seconds, where you will see mists beginning to appear
Slowly inhaling and exhaling the medication for about 5 to 10 minutes or until the medication is over
Turning off the compressor and washing your hands with a clean towel
General precautions you should take while using a Nebulizer include the following:
Read the instructions thoroughly before using or seek assistance from a specialist or pharmacist where the nebulizer was purchased.
Wash your hands before handling the medication or equipment to prevent any infections.
Check your medication and see if it is expired, damaged, discoloured, or exposed to cold or hot temperatures. You have to inform our specialist and replace the medication in case you notice any of the parameters mentioned.
Avoid overfilling the cup with medication and pour the appropriate amount of medication as shown by our specialists or pharmacists.
Place your mouthpiece or mask properly. Your mouthpiece should be over your tongue with closed teeth and tight lips around it. If you cough, you are free to stop the machine and breathe. However, you should complete it until the medication is empty. Moreover, you should have an extra mouthpiece or a nebulizer if existing ones become defective.
In case the medication forms bubbles or foams, stop the nebulizer immediately and inform your specialist. They could be a sign of contaminated medicine or defective equipment.
Keep the components and your nebulizer clean and store them in a dust-free area. Additionally, you may have to replace your nebulizer cup, mouthpiece, or tube, as they don't last long.
It is necessary to disinfect the nebulizer at least once per week or as otherwise advised by our specialists. You can disinfect both, disposable and non-disposable nebulizers, by soaking them in:
70% isopropyl alcohol for 5 minutes
3% hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes
One-part white vinegar poured into 3-part water solution for 30 minutes
Moreover, non-disposable nebulizers can be disinfected by employed heat methods, some of which include boiling or microwaving them in a bowl of water for 5 minutes, placing them in the dishwasher at 70 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes, or using an electric steam steriliser.
Lastly, rinse and dry the nebulizer well, and make sure it is completely dry before storing it.
Some side effects of which you should be aware while using nebulizer medications include:
Tightening of airway muscles
Gradual worsening or persistent breathing procedures after treatment
Fever
Soreness or dryness in mouth or throat
Chest tightness after treatment
Mild tremor
Rapid heartbeat or tachycardia
Rare complications that may include, glaucoma, eye pain, or blurred vision
You should seek medical attention if side effects persist for long periods.
Nebulizing medications, such as corticosteroids or bronchodilators, do not cause any serious complications to the foetus and are hence safe for medicinal usage. However, it is wise to inform our specialist of your current medications, especially if any steroidal or prescription medicines are included.
Along with maintaining your nebulizer equipment and following good hygiene practices before its usage, you can also adhere to certain lifestyle changes to enhance your recovery, such as:
Having a balanced diet and maintaining a good weight range
Prioritising good sleep and taking adequate rest
Taking medications and sticking to their schedules tailored by our specialist
Taking proper precautions to avoid exposure to certain allergens or pollutants
Attending follow-up schedules to evaluate your progress and, if necessary, making adjustments to medications
Aiming for a little exercise, at least for 30 minutes, every day
Staying current on vaccinations, particularly pneumonia and influenza
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