A nebulizer is a medical device that turns liquid medication into a fine mist or aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the lungs through a mouthpiece or mask. This allows the medicine to reach the respiratory system quickly and effectively
. Nebulizers are commonly used to treat lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis
. They are especially helpful for people who have difficulty using inhalers. There are three main types of nebulizers:
- Jet nebulizers: Use compressed air to create the mist.
- Ultrasonic nebulizers: Use high-frequency sound vibrations to produce the mist; they tend to be quieter but more expensive.
- Mesh nebulizers: Pass medicine through a fine mesh to create a mist
Nebulizers can be either portable battery-operated devices or larger tabletop machines that plug into electrical outlets
. They require a prescription and proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure effective and safe use
. In summary, a nebulizer is a device that converts liquid medicine into a breathable mist to deliver medication directly to the lungs, aiding in the treatment of various respiratory conditions
