What Is Nebulizer Treatment And What Is It Used For?

Spray therapy is a form of treatment in which drugs are administered in the form of a spray by inhalation to a patient. These treatments use nebulizers that convert the liquid into aerosol particles. They thus form a fine mist which the patient inhales.

Spray treatment: topics for use

The most common topic of use is the administration of bronchodilators to patients with asthma or COPD. Spray therapy is also used for other diseases such as cystic fibrosis, HIV and bronchodilation.

What medications can be given

The following medicines can be given through nebuliser therapy:

• Bronchodilators or corticosteroids.
• Mycolytes that help make coughing mucus easier.
• Substances such as saline, which makes lung secretions more liquid.
• Antibiotics for the direct treatment of bronchitis.

How spray treatment benefits

The main benefit of nebulizer therapy is that it allows the patient to be given medications so that they come into direct contact with areas requiring respiratory care. Thus, a lower effect is obtained at lower dosages.

Such treatment also typically has fewer side effects than the systemic route of administration. In nebulizer therapy, the drug or other substance settles directly into the bronchi. One of the factors that determines the placement of a spray in the airways is the size of the particles. But depending on the type of nebulizer, there can be significant differences in particle size, velocity, and mist distribution.

These factors, in turn, depend on the patient:

• Age
• Inhalation
• Lung disease

Risks and complications

Some possible complications include:

• Bronchospasm. The bronchi become inflamed and contracted. This causes coughing and difficulty breathing.
• Inflammation caused by contamination .
• Palpitations or high blood pressure.
• Carbon dioxide retention. Normally, carbon dioxide is expelled with exhalation.

How spray treatment works

The sprayer must be used correctly, otherwise it will not work. The nebulizer should also be compatible with the medication the patient is using to treat their ailment.

The medicine can be given through a face mask to patients who are extremely tired or have difficulty breathing, or who are unable to use traditional inhalers. This is often the case in elderly or acutely ill patients.

The medicine must be carefully prepared by the patient or a healthcare professional and the patient must have the necessary materials. Hands should be washed thoroughly. Follow the instructions on the device and use the exact dose of medicine to ensure that the treatment is carried out correctly.

If the treatment involves several drugs or therapeutic substances, they must be taken in succession in the following order:

1. Bronchodilators and / or corticosteroids.
2. Drugs that hydrate pulmonary secretions.
3. Respiratory physiotherapy. To mobilize and remove respiratory secretions.
4. Antibiotics for the treatment of bronchitis.

However, be sure to ask your doctor if there is any doubt about the correct order.

Spray treatment should be done with your back straight and your head tilted back. This will prevent you from buying the spray from affecting unwanted areas. In addition, the device and all equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

Various sprayers

There are a total of three types of nebulizers.

1. Ultrasonic nebulizers. The spray is generated by the vibration of a piezoelectric crystal. However, these are only suitable for spraying water and different concentrations of saline.

2. Capillary tube nebulizers. These consist of a nebulizer tank which forms an aerosol by means of an air stream. They are generally suitable for bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory drugs, various saline concentrations, mycolytes and antibiotics.

3. Vibrating network sprayers. The spray is generated when the liquid passes through small openings in the network. In general, these nebulizers are ideal for antibiotics because they take the drug better to the lungs and it is less wasted.

Finally

For nebulizer therapy to be effective, it must follow your doctor’s instructions.

If you need several medicines, they should be taken alternately in the correct order. The sprayer must also be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. It is also equally important to maintain good oral hygiene to remove any drug residues.