Nebulizer for asthma: what to know

The device uses a compressor or another power source to turn liquid medicine into an inhaled mist. A mouthpiece is often suitable for someone who can seal their lips around it; a mask may be used when that is difficult. The medicine can relax narrowed airway muscles or reduce airway inflammation, depending on the prescription. It does not treat every cause of breathing difficulty.

Asthma commonly presents with wheezing, cough, chest tightness or breathlessness. Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Allergy can coexist with asthma, while a persistent cough may need separate assessment.

Follow the medicine label and your written asthma plan. Sit upright, keep the nebulizer level, and breathe normally through the mouthpiece or mask until the treatment is finished. Clean and dry the equipment as its instructions describe; do not share mouthpieces or masks. Do not add medicine, change a dose, or repeat a treatment because symptoms are worrying unless a clinician has told you to do so.

Keep your reliever inhaler and spacer instructions available if they are part of your plan. A clinician or pharmacist can check your technique and decide whether a nebulizer or inhaler is more suitable for you.

Seek emergency help if breathing is severe or rapidly worsening, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, you feel faint or confused, or your prescribed reliever is not helping. Sit upright and follow your emergency asthma plan while help is arranged. Do not delay urgent assessment to complete a nebulizer treatment.

Ask which medicine belongs in the nebulizer, when to use it, how to clean the parts, what improvement to expect, and what action to take if symptoms return after treatment.