How to use nebulizer for cough
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How to Use a Nebulizer for Cough Relief
Introduction to Nebulizer Use for Cough
A nebulizer is a medical device that converts liquid medication into a fine mist, which can be inhaled directly into the lungs. This method is particularly effective for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and severe coughs. Using a nebulizer can help deliver medication more efficiently to the respiratory tract, providing quick relief from symptoms.
Preparing the Nebulizer
Equipment and Medication
Before using a nebulizer, ensure you have all necessary equipment: the nebulizer machine, a mouthpiece or mask, tubing, and the prescribed medication. Common medications used in nebulizers for cough include hypertonic saline, lidocaine, and budesonide3 4 7.
Setting Up the Device
- Wash Hands: Always start by washing your hands thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Assemble the Nebulizer: Connect the tubing to the air compressor and the nebulizer cup. Attach the mouthpiece or mask to the nebulizer cup.
- Add Medication: Measure the prescribed dose of medication and add it to the nebulizer cup. Some medications may need to be mixed with saline solution as directed by your healthcare provider4.
Using the Nebulizer
Inhalation Process
- Positioning: Sit in a comfortable, upright position to ensure proper inhalation.
- Start the Machine: Turn on the nebulizer machine. You should see a mist coming from the mouthpiece or mask.
- Inhale the Medication: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth or the mask over your nose and mouth. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth, holding each breath for a few seconds before exhaling. Continue this process until the medication is fully used, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes1 6.
Post-Treatment Care
- Clean the Equipment: After each use, disassemble the nebulizer parts and wash them with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry. Regular cleaning prevents bacterial growth and ensures the device functions properly1.
- Store Properly: Store the nebulizer parts in a clean, dry place until the next use.
Special Considerations
During COVID-19 Pandemic
There are concerns about the potential for nebulizers to spread infections, including COVID-19, through aerosolized particles. However, using a nebulizer at home is generally considered safe if proper hygiene practices are followed. It is crucial to clean the device thoroughly after each use and avoid using it in shared spaces if you are infected1.
For Specific Conditions
- Bronchiolitis in Children: Nebulized hypertonic saline has been shown to be effective in reducing cough and other symptoms in children with bronchiolitis3.
- Chronic Cough: Nebulized lidocaine can significantly reduce cough severity in patients with chronic cough, providing relief when other treatments have failed4 6 9.
Conclusion
Using a nebulizer for cough relief involves proper preparation, correct usage, and diligent post-treatment care. By following these steps, patients can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their respiratory health. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition and medication.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Guidance on nebulization during the current COVID-19 pandemic
Nebulizers are safe for use during the COVID-19 pandemic, but patients should follow practical advice and follow international professional bodies' recommendations for drug delivery via inhalers and nebulizers.
Rigorous Journal2020·26citations·M. Cazzola et al.·Respiratory Medicine
Respiratory Medicine ··DOI
A randomized trial of nebulized lignocaine, lignocaine spray or their combination for topical anesthesia during diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy.
Ten actuations of 10% lignocaine oropharyngeal spray is superior to nebulized lignocaine or their combination for topical anesthesia during diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy.
RCT
Large Human Trial2019·20citations·S. Dhooria et al.·Chest
Chest ··DOI
Nebulized hypertonic saline treatment in hospitalized children with moderate to severe viral bronchiolitis.
Frequent inhaled hypertonic saline effectively relieves symptoms and signs faster than normal saline, significantly reducing hospital stay duration in infants with moderate to severe bronchiolitis.
RCTRigorous Journal2011·67citations·Zhengxiu Luo et al.·Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases ··DOI
Effect of lidocaine nebuliser compared with NSS nebuliser in reducing cough symptom and pain in early tracheostomy care
Lidocaine-NSS nebulization is more effective than standard NSS nebulization in reducing cough and pain symptoms in early tracheostomy care.
RCTRigorous Journal2020·1citation·Kornkla Panprapakorn et al.·Clinical Otolaryngology
Clinical Otolaryngology ··DOI
Effects of nebulized amphotericin B and budesonide inhalation for chronic cough-related laryngeal sensations.
Nebulized amphotericin B or budesonide, selected based on sputum culture results, may effectively suppress cough-related laryngeal sensations in chronic cough patients.
RCT2015·3citations·H. Ogawa et al.·Auris, nasus, larynx
Auris, nasus, larynx ··DOI
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Effect of Lidocaine Administered via Throat Spray and Nebulization in Patients with Refractory Chronic Cough.
Lidocaine throat spray effectively reduces cough frequency in patients with refractory chronic cough, suggesting potential as a therapy for this condition.
RCTRigorous Journal2020·7citations·R. Abdulqawi et al.·The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice
The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice ··DOI
Nebulized dexmedetomidine-lidocaine inhalation as a premedication for flexible bronchoscopy: a randomized trial.
Nebulized dexmedetomidine-lidocaine reduces moderate to severe coughing compared to intravenous dexmedetomidine, with shorter recovery time and similar vasoconstrictor and atropine dosages.
RCT2019·14citations·W. Gu et al.·Journal of thoracic disease
Journal of thoracic disease ··DOI
Nebulized budesonide is as effective as nebulized adrenaline in moderately severe croup.
Nebulized budesonide and nebulized adrenaline are equally effective and safe in treating moderately severe croup in children.
RCT
Highly Cited1996·73citations·Dominic Fitzgerald et al.·Pediatrics
Pediatrics ··DOI
Evidence for Therapeutic Uses of Nebulized Lidocaine in the Treatment of Intractable Cough and Asthma
Nebulized lidocaine may provide an alternative treatment option for intractable cough and asthma patients who cannot tolerate or are unresponsive to other treatments, with appropriate monitoring precautions.
Systematic Review2013·36citations·Rachel M. Slaton et al.·Annals of Pharmacotherapy
Annals of Pharmacotherapy ··DOI
Nebulized sodium cromoglycate in young asthmatic children. Double-blind trial.
Nebulized sodium cromoglycate solution significantly improves symptoms in asthmatic children under 5 years of age, particularly in terms of cough.
RCT1977·38citations·E. J. Hiller et al.·Archives of Disease in Childhood
Archives of Disease in Childhood ··DOI