Nebulizer facts for kids

A nebuliser (say "NEB-yoo-ly-zer") is a special medical device. It helps people who have trouble breathing, like those with asthma or other lung problems. It turns liquid medicine into a fine mist, which you can easily breathe in through a mask or a mouthpiece. This mist goes straight into your lungs, helping you feel better quickly. Nebulisers are also sometimes used for people with a runny nose or nasal issues, though this is less common.

How Does a Nebuliser Work?

A nebuliser works by changing liquid medicine into a fine mist. This mist is made of tiny droplets that are easy to breathe in. The device usually has a small cup where you put the liquid medicine. Then, a pump or a vibrating part in the nebuliser pushes air or vibrations through the medicine. This creates the misty cloud.

You breathe in this mist through a tube connected to a face mask or a mouthpiece. The mist travels down your windpipe and into your lungs. Because the medicine is in a mist form, it can reach deep into your airways. This helps the medicine work faster and more directly where it's needed.

Who Uses a Nebuliser?

Many different people use nebulisers to help with their breathing. They are very helpful for conditions that affect the lungs and airways.

• Asthma: People with asthma often use nebulisers during an asthma attack. The mist helps to open up their airways quickly.
• Cystic Fibrosis: This is a genetic condition that affects the lungs. Nebulisers deliver medicines to clear mucus and fight infections.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Older adults with COPD might use nebulisers daily. They help manage symptoms like shortness of breath.
• Bronchiolitis: Young children or babies with this lung infection might use a nebuliser. It helps them breathe more easily.
• Other Lung Problems: Doctors might prescribe nebulisers for other breathing difficulties. This includes severe colds, bronchitis, or pneumonia.

Types of Nebulisers

There are a few main types of nebulisers, each working a little differently:

Jet Nebulisers

Jet nebulisers are the most common type. They use a compressor to create a strong stream of air. This air stream goes through the liquid medicine, turning it into a fine mist. They are often used at home and in hospitals. They can be a bit noisy, but they are very effective.

Ultrasonic Nebulisers

These nebulisers use high-frequency sound waves to create the mist. They have a small vibrating part that turns the liquid medicine into tiny droplets. Ultrasonic nebulisers are usually quieter than jet nebulisers. They are also often smaller and more portable.

Mesh Nebulisers

Mesh nebulisers are the newest and often the smallest type. They use a very fine mesh screen with tiny holes. The liquid medicine is pushed through these holes, creating a very fine mist. They are very quiet and can be battery-powered, making them easy to carry around.

Using a Nebuliser Safely

Using a nebuliser is usually simple, but it's important to follow your doctor's instructions.

• Cleanliness: Always make sure the nebuliser parts are clean. This prevents germs from getting into your lungs. Wash the mask or mouthpiece and the medicine cup after each use.
• Medicine: Only use the medicine prescribed by your doctor. Do not mix different medicines unless your doctor tells you to.
• Duration: A typical nebuliser treatment takes about 5 to 15 minutes. It's important to breathe normally and calmly during this time.
• Supervision: Children should always use a nebuliser with an adult watching them.

History of Nebulisers

The idea of breathing in medicine as a mist is not new. People have tried different ways to do this for a long time. The first modern nebuliser was invented in 1858 by a French doctor named Sales-Girons. His device used a hand pump to create a spray of medicine.

Over the years, nebulisers have become much more advanced. Early versions were often large and noisy. Today, many nebulisers are small enough to fit in a bag. They are also much quieter and more efficient. These improvements have made it easier for people to get the breathing help they need, wherever they are.

Images for kids

• 

  Another form of nebulization

• 

  A modern jet nebulizer

• 

  A vial of 0.5% albuterol sulfate inhalation solution for nebulizing

• 

  Sales-Girons pressurized nebulizer from 1858

• 

  A friendly robot, representing helpful technology.