A nebulizer can be used in place of an inhaler with metered-dose medication to treat asthma. It mixes medication with compressed air that is breathed in through a mouthpiece, so the drug goes directly to the lungs for faster relief of the asthma attack. It is easier to use for children, is necessary for infants and assures that adults are receiving all of their medication.
Direct Treatment
If you are using a nebulizer, you can be certain that your medication is reaching your lungs immediately. With metered-dose inhalers, you must breathe in the medicine and hold your breath to make sure you are getting it all.
Children
Nebulization is much easier for children, because they are able to breathe normally to receive the medication. Inhalers are sometimes difficult for children to use because they have to breathe in at the precise moment that the medicine is released from the inhaler.
Infants
Using a nebulizer with a properly sized face mask for an infant is a necessity. It is not possible to teach an infant use an inhaler.
Receiving Entire Dosage
For many children and some adults, it is difficult to learn the technique of using a metered-dose inhaler. By using a nebulizer, you can be certain that you or your child is receiving the entire dose of medication.
Significance
Aside from fast and more effective relief of asthma attacks, a nebulizer may also be used in patients with asthma just prior to surgery. It clears the lungs to help prevent breathing complications during the surgery.
Considerations
Using a nebulizer is not always convenient. Although it is effective, it requires an air compressor. For the sake of convenience, you or your child will still need to carry metered-dose inhaler for asthma attacks when not at home.
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