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Patient Guidance for Treating COPD with Nebulizers
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Posted On :
Jun-30-2011
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Article Word Count :
475
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The use of nebulisers in modern health care has become less popular in recent years.
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The use of nebulisers in modern health care has become less popular in recent years. This is because metered-dose inhalers have largely replaced nebulizers for the treatment of many respiratory conditions such as asthma.
However nebulisers are still used to treat COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). These devices transform liquid medicine into an aqueous vapour which many patients find to be effective at improving mucus viscosity and aiding expectoration. Air-driven nebulizers are commonly prescribed for patients suffering from the long-term bronchoconstriction caused by COPD.
It is important to note though that no real scientific evidence is available to prove that nebulisers are more effective for the treatment of COPD than metered dose inhalers. In many cases the prescription of nebulizers will come down to patient preference and a case-by-case study.
Using Nebulisers for COPD
Practical advice for the use of nebulizers can be provided by the National Institute Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). Recommendations for use include:
- Nebulisers can be prescribed over inhalers for those patients who have severe difficulties with breathing. They have been shown to be more effective than metered dose inhalers in emergency situations and when disabling breathlessness is present.
- Hand held nebulizers are widely available and can provide effective results. They are also easy to use and portable.
- Nebulisers can be an effective solution for patients who are elderly or have disabilities. They are easier to use than inhalers as the patient can use a facemask and will not have to actively push down to engage the dosage of medication.
- Both face masks and mouthpieces are available for use with nebulizers. It is important for patients to try both options to see which one is most suitable for their needs. In some cases patients will be required to use a face mask as this is a requirement for some medications (such as anticholinergic drugs)
- It is recommended that patients trial the use of nebulisers. If there are no improvements to the symptoms or any positive changes in lung function then the use of these devices will need to be reviewed.
- Nebulizers can be used in conjunction with metered dose inhalers. This provides more self-treatment options for patients.
- Patients that are hypercapnic will need to use nebulisers that are powered by compressed air. This is because oxygen therapy devices can exacerbate hypercapnia.
Nebulisers can provide patients with effective solutions to the symptoms of COPD. This allows them to self-administer drugs and provides more independence from carers and hospitals.
This form of self-treatment can also relieve the burden on local healthcare systems as it reduces the need to admit patients when they are suffering from COPD related breathing problems. This can provide significant health cost savings as well as increasing patient wellbeing.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Patient Guidance for Treating COPD with Nebulizers_64948.aspx
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Author Resource :
Nebulizers can be an effective way to manage chronic lung diseases and can provide fast relieve in emergency situations. Speak to your doctor if you want to find out more about using nebulizers.
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Keywords :
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Category :
Health and Fitness
:
Health and Fitness
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