A nebulizer is a breathing machine used to treat lung conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and other respiratory illnesses. They administer medication in the form of a mist that's inhaled into the lungs and are often used in situations in which using an inhaler is difficult or ineffective. Nebulizers are also used to limit the side effects of medications like steroids by delivering the medicine directly to the respiratory system.
As with many medical devices, there are many lay terms associated with nebulizer treatments. One common term for a nebulizer treatment is a breathing treatment. Used especially with children, this term refers to a nebulizer treatment, describing medication which is “breathed in” as the way it is administered.
If you or your child suffers from asthma, COPD, CF or another respiratory condition, you may be prescribed a nebulizer. While many people are familiar with meter dose inhalers (MDI) for treating respiratory conditions, some patients benefit from nebuliser treatment for a variety of reasons.
