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Nebulizer Treatments for COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung condition affecting millions of people worldwide. To manage and treat COPD, physicians often prescribe medication delivered via a nebulizer. Nebulizers administer medication in a fine mist that is inhaled. Several medications may be administered using a nebulizer.

  1. Definition

    • According to the National Jewish Health information site, "COPD is a group of diseases that include lung conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Most people with COPD have a combination of both" (National Jewish Health FAQ). The common characteristic of all COPD diseases is obstruction to the outflow of air from the lungs (National Lung Health Education Program).

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    Who Has COPD?

    • Over 24 million people currently suffer with some form of COPD--16 million are Americans. About 85 percent of cases are due to smoking tobacco. COPD attributable to smoking tends to run in families. The remaining 15 percent of cases may be due to inhaling fume-laden air, previous serious lung infections or genetic abnormalities (National Lung Health Education Program).

    Detecting COPD

    • The best early detection test for COPD is a breathing test done with a spirometer. A spirometer will produce metrics known as your "lung numbers." Ask your doctor to perform the test so you will readily know your numbers.

    Nebulizer Treatments

    • One way to manage or treat COPD is with nebulizers. Your doctor may prescribe a nebulizer to increase lung function and reduce COPD symptoms. A nebulizer is a device that vaporizes liquid medication into a fine mist. This mist is inhaled into the lungs with a mask or mouthpiece. A nebulizer is used to administer medication primarily for those with asthma, but also for those with cystic fibrosis or other respiratory illnesses. Nebulizers are also known as "atomizers."

    Nebulizer Medications

    • Nebulizers are similar to inhalers, except that nebulizers are able to deliver higher doses of medication in rescue situations. Medications dispensed by nebulizers include albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil or Airet) and ipratropium bromide (Atrovent).

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