Nebulizers Revolutions in the Treatment of Respiratory Conditions

Nebulizers have been around for many years now and have become very familiar treatment devices. Many respiratory conditions are treated with nebulisers. However not so very long ago it was very difficult to treat respiratory conditions. Medicines were in liquid or powder form and this made them impossible to deliver to the lungs. The introduction of nebulizers was to revolutionise the treatment of respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and cystic fibrosis. - Nebulisers transformed liquid medicine into a mist. This could be inhaled directly into the lungs without the risks of choking or drowning. - This meant that medication could be delivered directly to where it was need to effectively treat a wide range of conditions affecting the respiratory system. Nebulizer Design Several different types of nebulizer have been developed over the years. These devices aim to convert liquid medication in a mist that can be easily inhaled deep into the lungs. Jet nebulisers work by using compressed gas. These can be bulky and noisy and are not very efficient. Ultrasonic nebulizers work by vibrating tiny crystals to convert liquid into mist. These are more compact and less wasteful than the jet versions so are typically recommended by doctors for many conditions. Modern Usage Nebulisers are still used today for serious respiratory conditions. However they have been largely replaced for the treatment of asthma by metered dose inhalers (MDI). These offer a more efficient delivery system and are much more compact. This means they are portable and can be carried in a pocket or bag easily. Nebulizers are still sometimes used for asthma patients that are suffering a serious attack. The facemask and mouthpiece delivery systems have been found to be very beneficial during emergency situations. This may partly be because they can help to calm patients to prevent panic and stress which can exacerbate attacks. Using Nebulizers Nebulisers will be recommended by your doctor. They will make sure you have the appropriate device for the medication you will be taking. - Using a facemask with certain drugs (such as corticosteroids) can be inappropriate as this can allow them to come into contact with the delicate skin around the nose and mouth causing irritation. - Young children can find it difficult to use MDIs. For this reason medication may be delivered using nebulizers until they are a bit older. - Elderly patients may find it difficult to use MDIs as well. This is mainly due to limited mobility in their hands caused by conditions such as arthritis. Nebulisers are much more appropriate in these situations. - Facemask can waste a lot more of the medication than the mouthpiece options. This is why these are recommended where possible for patients.