Quick answer
What is nebulization?
Nebulization is a way of giving medicine directly to the lungs. A nebulizer machine turns liquid medicine into a fine mist, which the child breathes in through a mask or mouthpiece over a few minutes. It is commonly used for wheezing and asthma, and only with medicines prescribed by a doctor.
When is nebulization used?
Nebulization is a common treatment option for children with asthma and for some other causes of wheezing. It is useful when a child is too young or too breathless to use an inhaler effectively.
It is not a treatment for every cough or cold. Whether it will help depends on the cause of the symptoms, which is why a child should be examined before nebulization is given.
When might a pediatrician advise nebulization?
- An episode of wheezing with breathing difficulty
- An asthma flare-up not controlled by the usual inhaler
- Certain other breathing conditions, after examination
What parents often ask
- Is it habit-forming?
- No. Nebulization is a delivery method, not a medicine, and does not cause dependence.
- Nebulizer or inhaler?
- For most children with asthma, an inhaler with a spacer works as well and is easier to carry. Your pediatrician will advise.
- Home nebulizers
- If one is recommended, you will be shown the correct medicine, dose, technique and cleaning.
How nebulization is given at GROW
The pediatrician examines your child first and prescribes the medicine and dose. A parent stays with the child throughout, and younger children can sit on a parent's lap.
Your child is re-examined afterwards to see how well the treatment has worked, and the plan for home is explained.
What happens during nebulization?
Assessment
The pediatrician checks breathing and oxygen level.
Set-up
The prescribed medicine is placed in the nebulizer and a well-fitting mask is chosen.
Treatment
Your child breathes the mist normally for several minutes.
Review
Breathing is rechecked and next steps are discussed.
Age groups
Infants, children and adolescents, as advised by the pediatrician.
When to seek urgent medical care
Do not wait for a routine appointment if your child has any of the following:
- Breathing that remains fast or laboured after nebulization
- Bluish lips, grunting or exhaustion
- Needing reliever medicine more often than advised
Go to the nearest emergency department or call your local emergency number.
Nebulization: frequently asked questions
What is nebulization?
It is a method of giving medicine as a fine mist that is breathed directly into the lungs through a mask or mouthpiece.
Does every cough need nebulization?
No. Most coughs and colds do not need it. Nebulization helps specific conditions such as wheezing and asthma, so a pediatrician should examine the child first.
Can I nebulize my child at home without a prescription?
No. Nebulizer medicines should be used only as prescribed, in the dose and frequency advised by your child's doctor.
How long does a nebulization session take?
Typically several minutes, until the medicine cup is empty. Your child is then reassessed.
Further reading
General guidance on this page is consistent with information published by:
