A nebulizer provides a fine mist of medication to young children to help control asthma and its related symptoms. Children's Hospital of Boston states that a nebulizer sprays the medicated mist into children's lungs to help them breathe more freely. A nebulizer requires a face mask or mouthpiece, depending on the type used and the age and tolerance of the child.
Types
Nebulizers for children come in two main types. The first is an ultrasonic nebulizer. It is typically used by children too young to use a more standard form of medication delivery, such as the metered-dose inhaler. Typically, an ultrasonic nebulizer uses a mouthpiece and plastic tubing. The second type of nebulizer is a machine that uses oxygen to create a fine mist. This type of machine typically uses a face mask to deliver the medication.
Time Frame
Nebulizers are typically used by children every day as a preventative measure to avoid asthma attacks. A treatment typically takes between 15 and 20 minutes. However a nebulizer can also be used for emergency treatment when a rescue inhaler is not appropriate because of the age of the child.
Considerations
Use of corticosteroids, the most typical medication used by a nebulizer, can cause a minor slowdown in growth, notes MayoClinic.com. However, if your child has asthma, the benefits of having a regular dose of medication and an emergency response to manage your child's condition is significantly more important.
Warning
A nebulizer isn't always comfortable for kids, who may not respond well the first few times of use. Introduce the machine to your child and determine what activity he would like to do while having his treatment -- reading a book or playing a board game, for instance. If he is using an ultrasonic machine, make sure his lips are sealed around the mouthpiece and he breathes slowly. If using a face mask, distract your baby or young child with quiet games to prevent him from taking the mask off during treatment.
Identification
Work with your pediatrician to develop a long-term plan to manage your child's asthma. Nebulized treatment provided on a regular basis can keep the condition under control. However, during an emergency, you need to have a plan of action to ensure the attack is over quickly. In the long-term, your child must learn to manage asthma independently to ensure long-term health.
