Nebuliser

A nebuliser turns prescribed liquid medicine into a mist that you breathe in through a mask or mouthpiece.

The machine uses compressed air or another power source to make the mist. It is often made up of a compressor, tubing, a medicine cup, and a mask or mouthpiece. The medicine remains the active treatment; the nebuliser is the delivery equipment.

Use only the medicine, dose, and dilution instructions provided by your prescriber. Wash your hands, assemble the clean equipment, and put the medicine in the cup without mixing products unless you have been specifically told to do so. Sit upright where possible, fit the mask comfortably or seal your lips around the mouthpiece, and breathe normally until the treatment is finished or you are told to stop.

After each use, take the equipment apart as directed, rinse or clean the parts that are intended to be cleaned, and let them air-dry fully. Follow the manufacturer and care-team instructions for changing filters, tubing, and other components.

A nebuliser does not diagnose the cause of wheeze, cough, or breathlessness, and it does not replace a personalised treatment plan. It may not be the most practical delivery method for every medicine or every person. A clinician chooses the medicine and device based on the situation, your ability to use the equipment, and how urgently symptoms need assessment.

Using more medicine, repeating doses, or borrowing another person's nebuliser solution can cause harm. If treatment is not helping as expected, seek clinical advice instead of changing the plan yourself.

Some medicines can be taken with a handheld inhaler, sometimes with a spacer. These devices work differently and require their own technique. Your care team can demonstrate the prescribed option and check that you can use it correctly.

Keep a current list of your inhaled medicines and bring the nebuliser, or clear photographs of its parts, to a review if you are having difficulties. Tell the clinician about shaking, a racing heartbeat, mouth irritation, dizziness, or any other symptoms after a dose. They can check whether the medicine, dose, technique, or equipment needs attention.

Get urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, difficulty speaking because of breathing, blue or grey lips, chest pain, fainting, or new confusion. Do not delay urgent assessment while waiting to see whether a nebuliser treatment works. For a prescribed action plan, follow its emergency instructions while arranging help.