The Benefits & Risks of Nebuliser - A Comprehensive Guide

"Breathing should not be a battle."

This statement explains the number advantage of nebulisers and why they are essential for respiratory care in many medical institutions, clinics, private practices, and other settings.

A nebuliser is a practical solution for patients suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), and severe allergies. Breathing can feel like a daily battle, and this medical equipment is a must-have as it delivers medication straight to the lungs.

So, if you're a medical practitioner or patient looking to invest in a good respiratory solution, consider a nebuliser. However, there are benefits and risks to nebulisers.

This blog is a comprehensive guide that provides valuable insights into benefits of nebulisers, their risk and a few tips so that you know you're making the right choice!

Nebulizer: The Definition

A nebuliser is a breathing machine necessary for nebulisation. Nebulisation converts liquid medication into a mist so your lungs can inhale it continuously for several minutes. The nebuliser masks are usually complemented with a BP monitor to constantly monitor blood pressure and an ECG machine to keep the heart rate in check. This ensures comprehensive monitoring for patients with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

The benefit of nebulisation is different from inhalers, as they deliver medicines within a few quick bursts. The most commonly used nebuliser is for the following respiratory conditions:

• Asthma
• COPD
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Bronchitis
• Severe Allergies

Apart from assisting in treating these respiratory conditions, one major advantage of nebulisers is that they are easy to use, making them a go-to choice for young and elderly patients managing the above conditions. 

Let's look at the other benefits of nebulisation or nebulisers below.

Top 5 Benefits Of Nebulisers

1. Effective Treatment Of Breathing Issues

The most well-known benefit of nebulisation, with the help of nebulisers, is that it helps treat numerous breathing issues and conditions. For conditions such as asthma, COPD, and many others, this medical equipment is a lifeline as it provides liquid medication in mist form inside the lungs, providing relief to the targeted areas.

It is an effective tool that can help open blocked airways, reduce inflammation, and improve your patient's breathing. Nebulisers, at their core, offer effective relief from symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.

2. Easy To Use

Another significant benefit of nebulisers is that they are effortless to use. Your patients can use these medical tools from the comfort of their homes. They do not require the coordination of precise timing, inhaling forcefully, or even pressing a button.

All the patient has to do is breathe in naturally while using the mask, and the nebuliser will do the rest. This ease of use brings us to the next benefit of nebulisers: they are invaluable for infants and children. 

3. Invaluable For Children & Elderly

The third benefit of nebulisation with nebulisers is that it is a child-friendly medical tool for treating breathing issues. It benefits patients who cannot inhale deeply, hold their breaths, or coordinate inhalers.

This is true for small children, infants, and the elderly, especially those who have dementia. Using a mask instead of a mouthpiece provides comfort and continuous medication administration while keeping breathing normal, making it an invaluable tool in paediatric care.

4. Continuous Medication Delivery

Nebulisers provide a continuous delivery of administered medication to your patient over a few minutes. This extended delivery benefit of nebulisation is precious for patients suffering from respiratory distress by allowing more time for medication to take effect.  The continuous mist ensures the drug is deeply exhaled into the lungs, maximising its therapeutic effect and significantly relieving breathing difficulties.

5. Portability

Many modern-day nebulisers also offer the benefit of portability, making them easier for your patients to use from the comfort of their homes. This benefit of nebulisers is that they allow patients freedom and flexibility, thus giving them better mobility to continue their lifestyle.

The factor is also physiologically beneficial. The option for use at home provides them with the support and comfort of knowing they can access needed care even at home.

What Are The Drawbacks And Risks Of Nebulisers?

Nebulisers' advantages and risks go hand in hand. While operating them, it is also essential to understand them, as this helps prevent issues and provide satisfactory patient care and recommendations.

Below is a list of major risks and drawbacks, along with a tip on how to safely and effectively use these extremely beneficial nebulisers.

Risk Of Infection

One of the primary risks associated with using nebulisers is contracting an infection. This concern is mainly when the device is improperly cleaned and kept in dirty areas.

The unhygienic part of it makes it a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and mould, which patients can quickly inhale into their lungs. This can lead to infections in patients with compromised immune systems due to respiratory conditions.

Tip:

Always clean your nebuliser equipment thoroughly and properly. The best way to ensure you are on the right track is to follow the manufacturer's instructions on properly cleaning the nebuliser device.

Risk Of Overmedication

One of the benefits of nebulisers is that it delivers a continuous flow of medication. This benefit, when not monitored properly, can lead to the potential risk of overmedication for patients. The risk of nebuliser also runs if one uses it incorrectly, leading to side effects such as tremors, heart palpitations, and more. 

Tip:

As a patient, it is essential to always consult with your medical practitioner, clinic, or institution about the use of devices and medication dosage. It is also crucial for a medical practitioner to always be up-to-date on the patient's condition and medical requirements.

Nebulisation Is A Time Consuming Process

A nebuliser treatment might last 5 to 15 minutes, which may be uncomfortable for certain patients. This is especially true if your patient needs many treatments during the day.

Tip:

One way to avoid this drawback is to advise patients to plan their day to accommodate nebuliser treatments during periods when they are relaxing or watching TV. 

FAQs

When should you use a nebuliser?

Use nebulisers when prescribed for respiratory disorders such as asthma, COPD, or bronchitis. This is particularly plausible during flare-ups when inhalers are insufficient or burdensome.

Where to buy nebuliser masks online?

Many medical shops online, such as TenTab, sell a wide selection of nebuliser devices. We offer renowned brands at competitive prices, and the mask and other medical supplies are delivered straight to your address.

What not to do after nebulising?

Do not eat or drink shortly after nebulisation to allow the drug to absorb thoroughly. Do not omit cleaning the nebuliser because poor hygiene can lead to illnesses or contamination. Ensure you are following your healthcare provider's instructions.