Does a general practice perform nebuliser treatment?

A nebuliser changes liquid medicine into a mist that you breathe through a mouthpiece or mask. It may be used when a clinician needs to deliver inhaled medicine during an episode of wheezing or when using an inhaler is difficult. The clinician checks your breathing, oxygen level when available, heart rate and response to treatment. A nebuliser is not automatically better than an inhaler, and the medicine depends on the suspected cause and your health history.

Tell the practice about asthma or lung disease, allergies, heart problems, pregnancy and all medicines. Bring your usual inhalers and explain what you have already taken. Sit upright during treatment and report worsening tightness, shakiness, a racing heartbeat or distress. Use prescribed inhalers and nebuliser medicine only as directed; do not share equipment or medication. Ask how to clean any home device and when follow-up is needed.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, inability to speak in full sentences, confusion, collapse or little improvement with your prescribed reliever plan. Do not drive yourself if breathing is severely impaired. A nebuliser at a clinic should not delay emergency assessment when symptoms are life-threatening.

Ask why a nebuliser is recommended, which medicine it contains, how quickly it should help, what side effects to watch for and what action plan to follow if symptoms return.