What is a Nebulizer Machine?
Asthma is an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system is suppressed. As with other allergies, your body reacts in a hypersensitive way to specific substances that most others would consider harmless. When you are having an asthma attack, it is imperative to get treatment right away, as it can be fatal if not properly treated. Many people use a fast-acting inhaler to relax the airways, but hospitals and some at-home sufferers can use a nebulizer to help ward off attacks.
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Asthma Symptoms
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Asthma is marked by the blocking or narrowing of airways. When this occurs, it is extremely difficult to breathe. Coughing, a tightness in the chest, wheezing and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms of an attack. At least two of these symptoms tend to occur simultaneously when an attack is looming. Using a nebulizer during an attack can help relieve asthmatic symptoms immediately.
Identification
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A nebulizer is a small machine that is powered by an air compressor. Though it is portable, it does require electricity. Tubing connects the compressor to a cup that holds the liquid medicine (Albuterol). Depending on the person's needs, a nebulizer can be used with either a mask or a mouthpiece. A mask is generally used with the elderly, babies and small children. Nebulizers are available online, and some insurance companies will cover all or part of the cost.
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Function
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Nebulizers have the ability to change the Albuterol medication from a liquid to an inhaled mist. It is a preferred choice in hospitals, because it is capable of holding large doses as well as more effective than a fast-acting inhaler in reducing asthma symptoms.
Purpose
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Nebulizers are not for everyone who has asthma. They are best suited for those who have trouble using a fast-acting inhaler. The elderly, babies and young children benefit the most from at-home nebulizers, as it is a sure way of getting the proper dose of Albuterol to them. Nebulizers are also used for severe asthma attacks, when fast-acting inhalers are no longer working. If you have been checked in to the hospital for asthma, it is likely you will be sent home with a nebulizer for follow-up treatments. For this purpose, nebulizers are available for short-term rentals.
Care
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It is important to properly clean your nebulizer after each use. An unclean nebulizer not only just gets clogged but can carry the possibility of infection. Always wash the medicine cup in warm soapy water after each use and let it air dry. At the end of each day, be sure to wash the cup, mouthpiece or mask in the same way and let it air dry. Every couple of days, let the parts soak for 20 minutes in 1/2 cup of vinegar mixed with 1 1/2 cups of water, then let air dry.
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