Breathe Easy: How Nebulizers are Transforming Asthma Care
- Farhana Khan Sara
- Oct 5, 2024
- 4 min read
Author: Farhana Khan Sara
Asthma, also known as Bronchial Asthma, is a chronic illness that causes difficulties in breathing,
wheezing, and persistent coughing, which is, affecting millions of people worldwide (including more than
25 million people in the U.S. currently, and, in total, more than 5 million children).
What is a Nebulizer?
A Nebulizer is a medical device that changes medication from a liquid to a mist, making it easier to inhale
directly into the lungs. It is asked to be frequently used for the treatments, of Asthma, Cystic Fibrosis,
COPD, and other respiratory diseases or disorders. A Nebulizer uses oxygen, compressed air, or
ultrasonic power to break up solutions and suspensions into small aerosol (mixture of gas and solid or
liquid particles) droplets inspired by the gadget's mouthpiece. Nebulizers include - Jet Nebulizers, Soft
Mist Inhalers, Ultrasonic Wave Nebulizers, and Vibrating Mesh Technology.
Nebulizer Type 01 - Jet Nebulizer
Nebulizer Type 02 - Soft Mist Inhaler
Nebulizer Type 03 - Ultrasonic Wave Nebulizer
Nebulizer Type 04 - Vibrating Mesh Technology (Nebulizer)
Historical Evolution of Nebulizers
● The history of inhalation devices begins with Sales-Girons' pressurized inhaler in France (1858),
which atomized liquid medication using a bicycle pump-like mechanism. In 1864, Germany
introduced Siegle's steam spray inhaler, a nebulizer that, used steam and the Venturi principle to
atomize medications, although, its efficacy was limited due to a lack of understanding of droplet
size.
● The 1930s saw the advent of the Pneumostat, an electrically driven nebulizer, alongside the
simpler hand-driven Parke-Davis Glaseptic. In 1956, Riker Laboratories launched the first
pressurized metered-dose inhalers, using gas propellants like Freon to deliver precise doses of
medication.
● The 1964 introduction of ultrasonic wave nebulizers marked a technological shift, which later
found applications in humidifiers and electronic cigarettes. Early e-cigarettes employed ultrasonic
nebulization but have since transitioned to more efficient electric vaporizers that utilize
atomization techniques, optimizing nicotine delivery.
Medications Used in a Nebulizer
● Bronchodilators
➔ Albuterol (Salbutamol): Short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) for quick relief of asthma
symptoms.
➔ Levalbuterol: Another SABA, often used for patients who experience side effects from
albuterol.
➔ Ipratropium Bromide: An anticholinergic bronchodilator, often used in combination
with other medications.
● Corticosteroids
➔ Budesonide: Used for long-term control of asthma and reducing inflammation.
➔ Fluticasone: Another inhaled corticosteroid to help manage asthma symptoms.
● Combination Medications
➔ Budesonide/Formoterol: A combination of a corticosteroid and a long-acting
beta-agonist (LABA).
➔ Albuterol/Ipratropium: Combines a SABA with an anticholinergic for enhanced
bronchodilation.
● Mucolytics
➔ Acetylcysteine: Helps to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up, often used in
conditions like cystic fibrosis.
● Antibiotics
➔ Tobramycin: An inhaled antibiotic used to treat lung infections, particularly in patients
with cystic fibrosis.
● Leukotriene Modifiers (not typically nebulized but relevant for asthma management)
➔ Montelukast: Taken orally but sometimes considered in overall asthma management.
● Others
➔ Pentamidine: Used for certain types of pneumonia, particularly in immunocompromised
patients.
Ways of Using It and Attachments
Nebulizers deliver liquid medication, typically corticosteroids and bronchodilators like salbutamol,
directly to the respiratory tract for faster effects and fewer side effects. Patients usually use a mouthpiece,
but face masks can be used for children and the elderly. After using corticosteroids, rinsing the mouth is
recommended to reduce the risk of oral thrush or hoarseness. While bronchodilators don’t carry the same
risks, rinsing can help with unpleasant tastes.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Nebulizer
In conclusion, nebulizers represent a vital advancement in the management of asthma and other
respiratory conditions, offering a range of benefits that enhance patient care. Their ability to deliver
medication directly to the lungs, ease of use for individuals of all ages, and versatility in treating various
respiratory diseases make them an invaluable tool for both acute relief and long-term management. As
technology continues to evolve, nebulizers are likely to become even more effective and user-friendly,
further improving the quality of life for millions of patients. With proper guidance and support from
healthcare professionals, nebulizers can play a crucial role in transforming asthma care, empowering
individuals to breathe easier and live healthier lives.
References:
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September 29, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nebulizer
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9.ALL THE IMAGES DO NOT belong to me, it is taking from websites ,
that are provided in the reference section and google.
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