A nebuliser is a device which changes liquid medication into a mist which can be breathed in through a mask or mouthpiece
In asthma, nebulised therapy is often a way to give high doses of reliever medication very quickly in an emergency situation.
Due to advances in the types of inhalers and spacers available today, there is less need for nebulised therapy; however it may be prescribed in certain circumstances.Using an inhaler and spacer together are equally as effective as using a nebuliser, except in severe asthma attacks.
The Asthma Society of Ireland doesn’t recommend the use of nebuliser compressors in the home, unless you have been instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.
Nebulisers are sometimes used in hospitals to treat asthma attacks or for children with uncontrolled asthma who find it difficult to use a spacer device.
Usually a patient will visit their doctor or respiratory clinic if they need nebulised reliever medication. However, in some cases of severe asthma a patient may be prescribed a home nebuliser for regular use.
