What to expect from nebuliser treatment for acute bronchitis

A nebuliser changes liquid medicine into fine droplets. You sit upright and breathe normally while the mist passes into your airways. The clinician may listen to your chest and check your breathing before and after treatment. The medicine selected depends on whether narrowed airways or wheezing is present; nebuliser treatment is not needed for every bout of acute bronchitis.

The mist may feel cool, and the session can make your mouth or throat feel dry. Some inhaled medicines can briefly cause shakiness, a faster heartbeat or headache. Tell the clinician if these symptoms feel strong or do not settle.

Use the nebuliser only with the medicine and instructions supplied for you. Sit upright, make a good seal around the mouthpiece or mask, and breathe steadily until the prescribed liquid has been used. Clean and dry the equipment as directed, because damp equipment can allow germs to grow.

Rest, drink fluids if you can, and avoid smoke or other airway irritants. Acute bronchitis often follows an infection, so a nebuliser may ease wheeze without removing the underlying cough immediately. Do not add extra doses or someone else's medicine.

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, or difficulty speaking because of breathing. Arrange prompt medical review if breathing is getting worse, chest pain is significant, you cough blood, or the treatment gives no relief and wheezing continues.

Ask which medicine is in the nebuliser, how often to use it, whether an inhaler could be suitable, how to clean the device, and which changes in breathing should trigger review.