Does Nebulizer Use Harm Child's Lungs?

A nebulizer is prescribed by a pediatrician to help manage your child's lung condition, such as occasional or chronic asthma. A nebulizer is necessary to make the medication accessible to the child and to treat the lung condition.

Diagnosis

• Most children use a nebulizer to manage asthma. But for very young children, a conclusive diagnosis of asthma is often not possible until they are two years or older. In this case, to minimize coughs and wheezing as well as prevent a full-blown attack, a nebulizer is critical to your child's health.

Significance

• A nebulizer atomizes the medication that helps manage your child's lung condition. The action of making this medication breathable cannot harm your child's lungs.

Medication

• Some medication has side effects. Albuterol, a steroid commonly prescribed for asthma, can cause the heart rate to speed up, and children may feel shaky after inhaling it.

Significance

• If your child feels dizzy or shaky while using a nebulizer, pause the treatment and rest for five minutes. If the symptoms persist, consult your pediatrician.

Hygiene

• Wash your hands before placing medication into the nebulizer. Rinse the nebulizer cup after each treatment and let it air dry. Disinfect the equipment every three days or so to ensure that the nebulizer doesn't become a source of bacterial infection.