Nebulizer Mask

A nebulizer machine is used to deliver a liquid (solution) medication via inhalation directly into the lungs. It does this by converting the liquid drug into a fine mist. The mist travels up a tube and is eventually inhaled using a face mask, mouthpiece, or another accessory. They typically use oxygen in this process but may also use compressed air.

Making a decision on whether to use a nebulizer mask or a mouthpiece should start with a healthcare professional but the following information is intended to help you to understand the differences between these delivery systems.

What Is a Nebulizer Mask?

A nebulizer mask looks and is very similar to a regular oxygen mask commonly used in the hospital. Unlike a mouthpiece, it covers the mouth and nose and is usually held onto the face using an elastic band.

Nebulizer treatments are commonly used by people who have respiratory disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis.

There are many different types of medications that can be nebulized including glucocorticoids, bronchodilators, antibiotics, and even just plain saline which is used to thin mucus secretions. Examples of some of the most commonly used medications include albuterol and budesonide.

Nebulizer machines require some training to be used properly, you should receive this training from a healthcare provider, nurse, or respiratory therapist prior to use. It is also important that medications which should not be mixed are not mixed and that the proper amount of medications are used.

Advantages of a Nebulizer Mask

The elastic band holding the mask in place makes it easier to be used passively because unlike a mouthpiece it doesn't have to be held in place. This is especially helpful for people who may be too weak to hold the mouthpiece or lack the necessarily mobility to do so.

Some people may simply prefer the mask because it allows them to retain the use of their hands throughout the duration of the treatment.

Unlike a mouthpiece, the mask does not require you to breathe in a very specific way. When you use a mouthpiece the correct method of breathing is in through the mouth and out through your nose.

For small children or those who may have disabilities, such as a learning disability, this could be challenging. Not only must you be able to follow these instructions but it requires a certain amount of continual concentration throughout the duration of the treatment.

Disadvantages of a Nebulizer Mask

One disadvantage of using a nebulizer mask versus a mouthpiece is that the mask can sometimes interfere with your ability to see properly. This is especially true if the mask is large for your face.

A mask that fits incorrectly can also cause discomfort and allow the medication to escape out the sides of the mask, making the treatment less effective. In fact, the specific way that you need to breathe through a mouthpiece may alone makes it more effective at delivering the medication than a mask.

Other disadvantages of a nebulizer mask are that the mask may be harder to keep clean than a mouthpiece. The plastic used for a face mask is less durable than the material used to construct a mouthpiece which may result in a shorter life of the product.

Maintaining Your Mask and Nebulizer

Nebulizers need proper maintenance and cleaning to make sure that bacteria or other germs do not grow inside of the machine which may then inadvertently be inhaled into your lungs.

Only distilled water should be used in your nebulizer machine and to clean accessories such as a face mask. This helps to prevent the growth of germs and prolongs the life of your equipment.

You should never clean your mask by placing it in boiling water (although some machine parts may be safely cleaned this way) because the type of plastic used to make the masks cannot withstand the heat and the mask will lose its shape.