1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Lung Diseases

How To Use Your Nebulizer

From A.D.A.M., Inc., for About.com

Updated: February 4, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD

Nebulizer

Nebulizer

A.D.A.M., Inc.
Nebulizers are used to treat Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other conditions where inhaled medicines are indicated. Here are easy step-by-step instructions about how to use your nebulizer.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 15 - 20 minutes

Here's How:

  1. Assemble the nebulizer according to its instructions.
  2. Connect the hose to an air compressor.
  3. Fill the medicine cup with your prescription, according to the instructions.
  4. Attach the hose and mouthpiece to the medicine cup.
  5. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth or place the face mask over your nose and mouth. Breathe through your mouth until all the medicine is used, about 10-15 minutes.
  6. Wash the medicine cup and mouthpiece with water, and air-dry.

Tips:

  1. When using a mouthpiece, some people use a nose clip to help them breathe only through the mouth.

What You Need:

  • Nebulizer
  • Nebulizer Manufacturer's Instructions
  • Medication

Explore Lung Diseases

More from About.com

About.com is accredited by the Health On the Net Foundation, which promotes reliable and trusted online health information.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Lung Diseases
  4. Emphysema
  5. Coping with Emphysema
  6. How to Use Your Nebulizer

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.