Top 5 Nebulizer Myths

If you’re new to nebulizers, you might have a few misconceptions. Here are some of the common ones—

• Myth 1

Nebulizers are only used to treat asthma.

Fact

Nebulizers are great for a whole range of respiratory conditions including COPD, asthma, acute bronchitis, emphysema, RSV and more.

• Myth 2

Nebulizers are complicated.

Fact

Actually, they’re very simple. Just put the medication in, connect the tube if you’re using a mask, and turn it on. Plus, unlike inhalers, they don’t require any coordination of actions.  When using an inhaler, you have to depress the canister while simultaneously breathing inward. But with a nebulizer you can breathe normally and easily.

• Myth 3

Whether you use a nebulizer or inhaler, you know you’re getting the proper dosage every time.

Fact

Unfortunately, when using an inhaler if you don’t properly coordinate your breathing with the medicine dispersal you won’t get the full dose. And, according to a report by the American College of Chest Physicians, up to 70% of inhaler users get this wrong. However, with a nebulizer you know you’re getting the full dose every time.

• Myth 4

American nebulizer machines won’t work outside the States.

Fact

Many nebulizers are made to be portable—small, lightweight and battery operated. One of our most popular nebulizers, the Omron Micro-Air, is about the size of your hand, weighs 6 ounces and runs on AA batteries. But if you do have a nebulizer that needs to be plugged in, you can simply get a power adapter.

• Myth 5

You have to carry your nebulizer with you.

Fact

As mentioned, there are a lot of portable nebulizers so if you want to, you certainly can. But for maintenance therapy you’ll only need to use your nebulizer a couple times a day, making it easy to leave at home and incorporate into your routine.