How to Build a Nebulizer

Nebulizer kits are available at medical supply stores and from catalogs and are easy to assemble. Build your own nebulizer to treat asthma, emphysema and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases at home.

Things You'll Need

• Nebulizer kit Air source

Instructions

1. The nebulizer kit includes a mask or mouthpiece, a medication chamber, an optional air reservoir and tubing for the air source.

2. Be sure that the air source (whether an oxygen machine or air machine) is in working order.

3. Attach one end of the tubing to the machine to provide nebulizing air supply.

4. Attach the other end of the tubing to the medication chamber.

5. Add medication to the chamber. Most nebulizer medications come in squeeze capsules that equal one dose.

6. Attach the medication chamber to the mouthpiece or mask and to the connective piece included in the kit. If you are using a mouthpiece, you may also have to attach an oxygen reservoir to the other side of the connective piece.

7. Turn on the air supply. An oxygen tank must be set to 6 liters per minute; for an air machine, set to the level recommended by your physician. Clouds of medication coming from the mask or mouthpiece will be visible if the nebulizer is working properly.

8. Put the mask on your face, or place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and breath slowly and deeply.