Answer:

Nebulization is a method that uses a device (nebulizer machine) to convert medication or solutions (physiological saline, hypertonic saline) from liquid into small mist particles. Patients inhale these particles, which diffuse from the upper respiratory tract to the lower respiratory tract. The medication acts directly on the nasal and throat lining and the epithelial cells of the airways. Solutions are used for cleaning, thinning phlegm, providing moisture, and stimulating coughing to expel phlegm more easily.

Currently, three common types of nebulizer machines are used in medical settings:

Jet/compressor nebulizer: This type uses a high-pressure airflow to blow through a capillary tube containing medication. These devices are bulky, heavy, and noisy, typically used in hospitals.

Mesh nebulizer: This advanced technology uses a thin mesh membrane with thousands of tiny holes, combined with ultrasonic waves, to push medication through the mesh, creating extremely fine mist particles. The machine is ultra-compact (handheld), battery-operated, can be tilted even when a child is sleeping, and operates quietly.

Ultrasonic nebulizer: This type offers fast misting speed and quieter operation than compressor nebulizers. However, the ultrasonic waves generate heat that can alter or destroy the structure of some antibiotics or protein-containing medications.

Doctors prescribe nebulizer treatment for children in cases of acute conditions, such as acute asthma attacks, bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or acute laryngitis. It is also indicated for chronic conditions like bronchial asthma and respiratory failure, where children experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, and require airway clearance. Special situations include needing to thin phlegm before respiratory physical therapy or when a child cannot use a metered-dose inhaler.

Nebulizer use allows medication to rapidly diffuse to the airway lining, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream, quickly alleviating symptoms. Nebulized medication doses are typically small compared to oral or intravenous routes, acting directly in the lungs with fewer systemic side effects.

Dr. Hanh examining a pediatric patient. Photo: Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic

However, parents should not arbitrarily administer nebulizer therapy to children at home when respiratory symptoms appear.

Misusing medication or using the wrong medication can cause various side effects, including increased heart rate, hypokalemia, hand tremors, agitation, and vomiting. If nebulizers are used frequently at home without proper sterilization of the mask and tubing, there is an increased risk of bacterial and fungal infections in the child's respiratory tract.

Children should only use nebulizers at home when examined by a doctor, with a treatment plan prescribed, including the medication name, dosage, and frequency of use. Parents must receive specific instructions from medical staff on how to use and clean the machine, sterilize accessories, and recognize if the child is responding to the medication.

Therefore, instead of self-administering nebulizer treatment at home, parents should clear their child's nose and throat to prevent phlegm blockage and clean the nasal passages and throat with physiological saline. Ensuring adequate nutrition for children helps boost their immunity. Avoid direct exposure to cigarette smoke, dust, mold, and pet dander. Take the child to a medical facility for examination if they exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Doctor Do Thi Hanh

Pediatrics Unit

Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic