What is a nebulizer? So a few words about nebulization in children

Probably each of us, at least once heard about nebulization or a nebulizer, and wondered what these terms really mean. Especially since this name is not obvious and not knowing what is nebulization, it's hard for us to imagine too what is a nebulizer. As parents, we can get confused in the world of all these concepts. But don't worry, we're here to help. In the post below, we provide a handful of information about the nebulization process. We will also explain what is a nebulizer and we will suggest jak go use and which one to choose. 

What is nebulization?  

Before we move on to the description of the operation of the device itself, which is the nebulizer, let's start with the basics, i.e. the explanation what is nebulization. Knowing this concept should be important to us because only performing the procedure in an appropriate manner can bring the desired effect in the form of an effective treatment process. And yet, as parents, we primarily want the well-being and safety of our children.

Nebulization is a procedure that is often practiced in outpatient and inpatient treatment. It is carried out primarily in order to apply various types of drugs topically or systemically. Usually in the area of ​​the respiratory system, but not only (which we will talk about later in this article). Apart from the first and at the same time the main purpose of the nebulization procedure - that is, administering medications, this procedure can also be performed to cleanse the respiratory tract from secretions or to moisturize them. It is also a method commonly used in the fight against a runny nose or cough.

Nebulization as a pleasant, cool mist is also, for the most part, better tolerated by children than other methods of administering drugs.

Nebulization and inhalation: how they differ?

It seems that, contrary to the somewhat strange concept of nebulization, most of us can say at least a few words about inhalation. There is a reason, however, that the topic of inhalation appears when mentioning nebulization. Often, both concepts are confused and sometimes even used interchangeably, which is a mistake in the case of the narrower concept of nebulization.

After such an introduction, you probably wonder what is the difference between an inhaler and a nebulizer, and whether nebulization and inhalation are really two completely different treatments. The answer to these questions is not entirely obvious, if only because the concept of inhalation is a broader concept than nebulization. To fully understand the differences, let's move on to an explanation of both concepts.

Inhalation

The inhalation process is a type of surgery aimed at application of various substances to the respiratory tract with air. Typically this is done by heating a fluid solution until it can enter the respiratory tract as water vapor. You can read more about inhalation here.

Nebulization

In turn, nebulization is actually an inhalation technique. More precisely, a medical procedure consisting in application of cold mist containing medicinal substances directly to the organs of the respiratory tract. It is possible because in the nebulization process, the applied solution is broken into much smaller particles than in water vapor. Interestingly, this the size of the produced particles of the nebulized drugs depends on the organ to which they will be administered. Thus, we can apply drugs not only to the nose, but also, for example, to the lungs, bronchi or trachea. Drugs so administered may include antibiotics, expectorants, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

However, we should remember that due to the typically medical nature of this procedure, we cannot perform it without a clear indication and consultation, for example with a pediatrician.

By looking at the definitions above, and knowing that inhalation is a broader concept, we can already guess that both concepts can be combined using the phrase: inhalation with a nebulizer. In this case, it will not be a mistake.

What is a nebulizer? 

A nebulizer, simply put, it nebulization device. This equipment turns the liquid drug substance into an aerosol. This is to spray the drug with compressed air, which is then directed through a special tube towards the mounted tip, e.g. a mask, used to administer the drug to the respiratory tract.

What is the difference between an inhaler and a nebulizer? 

As we have already mentioned, nebulization and inhalation are not the same. Therefore, the nebulizer should not be confused with the inhaler either. Mainly because not every inhaler is also a nebulizer. 

Inhalers, in most cases, are small containers filled with medicine that can be taken with you and used also outside the place of residence. The inhalation process with their use may only take a few seconds.

It cannot be attributed to nebulizers, which:

• firstly, they are reusable devices;
• they usually take up more space by volume;
• require connection to electricity or use of batteries;
• inhalation with a nebulizer also takes longer than when using an inhaler - i.e. from a few to several minutes.

Nebulizer: how to use?

After this solid dose of knowledge on how to understand nebulization and a nebuliser, we can move on to the correct use of this device. As we already mentioned:

The effectiveness of the therapy depends on whether we use the nebulizer well and perform the procedure correctly.

How to perform a nebulization procedure? 

Remember that - as with any treatment - before inhaling with a nebulizer, wash your hands. Regardless of what model of device we use, they all have one rule. Each component of the nebuliser should be properly disinfected before use.

Then going on to measuring your dose of medicine make sure that it is intended for inhalation and that the dose is in accordance with the doctor's recommendations. This is especially important because at this stage we go to the application of the drug to the device and here we should be sure about the dose administered.

In most devices, depending on the model, the device should be tightly closed when the nebuliser is placed on a flat surface and the correct dose is dispensed. But detailed information on the operation of a specific nebulizer can always be found in its instruction manual.

Nebulization: what else should I remember?

It is also worth adding that the parent should remember to perform the nebulization procedure not to do this immediately before or after a meal. It could make the baby gag, which we don't want. The procedure itself can be enough stress for the toddler. If your child is wearing glasses, it is also best to remove them while nebulizing. Before starting the inhalation with a nebulizer, it is also worth making sure that the baby's nose, in the case of a runny nose, is cleaned of any residual secretions. This will help your baby to inhale the mist properly.

After, The nebulizer should be properly disassembled and its parts disinfected as recommended by the manufacturer. Reusable parts should be cleaned after each use. We should also make sure that disposable elements are thrown away and replaced with new ones after the procedure.

Ways to carry out nebulization:

positions

The nebulization procedure is usually performed in sitting position and most devices are designed for this type of inhalation. This does not mean, however, that the procedure cannot be performed in lying position. Just select the device model intended for it. Before buying a nebulizer, it is worth considering this fact. This is especially true for young children and infants.

The method of substance application

The second issue is how the substance is applied. A special face mask is usually used in young children. Remember that it should be properly worn and fit snugly against the face. Leakage around the chin may prevent the child from inhaling the medicinal mist, but the air. And this, unfortunately, will reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Older children can apply mouthpiecewhich helps to put most of the medicine directly into the baby's airways. Thanks to this, we can be sure that the preparation prepared by us will be properly used.

Most nebulizer models also have a separate mist tip directly into the nose. This helps the aerosol to reach the upper respiratory tract directly.

Nebulizer: types

Now that you know what nebulization is, and have a basic understanding of what a nebulizer is and how to use it, it's time to find out which model to choose from those currently available on the market. And here it should be noted that the choice is quite large. Everything depending on the child's age, health, mobility and the type of therapy prescribed. It is worth adding that nebulizers can be used not only in children, but also in adults. Remember this when choosing a device.

Mention is made, inter alia, of nebulizers pneumatic-piston, but also ultrasonic, Czy membrane. We wrote more about the nebulizer in the context of its types and parameters in the article: Which inhaler should I choose for my child?

In order to choose the best nebuliser for us and our child, it is worth paying attention to the rankings published on the Internet. When choosing a nebulizer, such a ranking will make it easier for us to search for equipment. We can follow the instructions of other users who have already completed the first tests of the devices.

Nebulizer: other use

The nebulizer, as a device that allows for innovative drug application, can be used not only in the treatment of the respiratory tract. Due to the painless and simple application, it can also be used to administer other types of drugs. Of course, those intended for inhalation with a nebulizer. It can be an excellent replacement for injections, as well as a way to relieve the gastrointestinal tract, weakened by the side effects of certain drugs.

Remember, however, that not all funds can be applied this way. Sometimes there are also contraindications to the use of nebulizer inhalation. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to consult a doctor each time. Especially when it comes to administering drugs to the youngest. There can be no doubt about it here.

However, it is worth remembering about nebulizers, especially in the case of a child who has difficulty accepting other methods of administering drugs.