Nebulizers FAQ

Approximately 34.1 million Americans receive a diagnosis of asthma at some point in their life. A nebulizer is commonly used to treat this condition, as well as other respiratory disorders.

Function

• A nebulizer is a dispenser that turns a liquid into a fine mist. Nebulizers deliver medication to people with breathing problems. According to the American Thoracic Society, it is possible to deliver higher doses of certain medications through the use of a nebulizer.

Types

• There are two nebulizer models on the market. A jet nebulizer converts a pool of liquid medicine into an aerosol mist. It consists of an electric or battery-powered compressor attached hollow tubing. The tubing connects to a cup which holds the liquid medication. Air then flows through the tube to the medicine, creating a medicated mist is which is inhaled through a mask. An ultrasonic nebulizer uses high-frequency electrical vibrations, rather than compressed air, to convert the medication to a mist.

Considerations

• To obtain a nebulizer, a patient must have a prescription from a doctor. Nebulizers are typically covered by most health insurance companies, however, usually the insurance company, rather than the patient, selects the medical equipment supplier.