Nebulizers and their function in relieving a persistent cough explained
A nebulizer is a device that transforms liquid medication into a fine mist, making it easier for individuals to inhale. This device is often used to deliver a variety of medications, such as budesonide (Pulmicort), beclomethasone (Qvar), fluticasone, albuterol (Proventil HFA), levalbuterol (Xopenex HFA), terbutaline (Bronclyn), and others.
Nebulizers generally deliver two types of medication: bronchodilators, which help to open up the airways, and corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation. The length of treatment with a nebulizer can vary, ranging from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the medication being used.
A nebulizer typically consists of five main components: a medicine cup, a mask or mouthpiece, a cap, a thin plastic tube, and a compressor machine. People who find handheld inhalers difficult to use may find nebulizers more suitable.
When using a nebulizer, it's important to follow certain precautions. These include filling the medicine cup with doctor-prescribed medications, not breathing too heavily, cleaning equipment after use, storing medications appropriately, ensuring the compressor machine is working, and disinfecting parts once a week (except the thin plastic tube).
Cough symptoms in children may be treated with nebulizers if they have difficulty taking medications in other forms. However, caregivers should never use or share nebulizer prescriptions to treat their children.
A person should contact a doctor if their cough lasts more than three weeks, is severe, they cough up blood, experience wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever, or if they have other concerning symptoms alongside their cough.
The most common medications used in nebulizers to treat cough are mucolytics like Acetylcysteine and Ambroxol, which help loosen mucus. Sometimes, bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids may also be used, depending on the condition. Cough suppressants like Codeine are generally not used in nebulizers and are reserved for dry coughs under medical supervision.
Nebulizers can provide relief for a cough by breaking up mucus, reducing inflammation, and reducing chest tightness or constriction. They can be used on a short-term basis during sudden worsening of cough symptoms or asthma flare-ups, and also to help prevent the onset or worsening of symptoms by regularly opening the airways and reducing inflammation.
Other medications that can be used with nebulizers include cromolyn sodium (Intal nebulizer solution) and hypertonic saline.
Common causes of a cough include upper respiratory tract infections, lower respiratory tract infections, postnasal drip, inhaling irritants, hay fever, asthma, smoking, and other factors. If you or your child are experiencing a persistent cough, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
