Nebulizer Masks

The world we live in is a pollution-filled world, with ailments like asthma and other respiratory problems gradually becoming very common in this planet. The problem with respiration can be controlled, if not cured, by the regular inhaling of corticosteroids.

Corticosteroids are taken through a nebulizer and it should be seen that the full dose is taken properly. To ensure that the medicine inhaled is effective and inhaled completely, you must use a nebulizer mask. The nebulizer mask is used mainly for infants and adults who are facing difficulties in using inhalers and other treatment methods.

With the use of the nebulizer mask, passive breathing and inhaling of the drug is allowed. There are many asthma patients who find it difficult to use breathe inhalers and do not find relief from them. It is for these kinds of patients that doctors recommend an alternative. This alternative comes in the form of a nebulizer, which permits the full dosage of the medicine to be inhaled, without difficulty. The mouth attachment of the nebulizer is the nebulizer mask, which helps to deliver the medication effectively, by keeping the stream of mist consistent and ensuring that the dosage is inhaled completely.

The nebulizer mask is made of rubber or clear vinyl. A mask fits snugly over the patient's nose to allow him to inhale the medication entirely. The nebulizer mask usually comes with an adjustable elastic strap, which fits around the head of the patient and helps to keep the mask in place.

Very young children and specially infants should use this for taking their asthma medicines. Parents should fit the mask over the child’s face when the child is in an upright position. The mask should fit closely around the face of the patient in order to be more effective.

For infants and children, pediatric nebulizer masks are now available in many colours and shapes, ranging from dinosaurs to fishes. This makes the entire inhaling session more enjoyable for the little one. The colourful masks help to add a fun element to the treatment. When using masks for adults, the adult nebulizer mask should be attached with straps, in case there is no one to hold the nebulizer mask over the face.

You must be very careful about the hygiene and maintenance of the nebulizer mask –

- Rinse it properly with soapy water after every use.
- Set it aside to air dry.
- Disinfect the mask and all other nebulizer parts with vinegar and water solution or a commercial nebulizer disinfectant, twice or thrice a week.
- Keep the nebulizer masks away from dust and smoke as they can increase the symptoms of respiratory attacks in the patient.
- Never share the nebulizer masks with anyone to avoid risks of infection.
- Always keep an extra aerosol mask in case of emergency.

The biggest advantage of using a mask is that it can help for short-term treatments like administering respiratory syncytial virus and long-term maintenance for chronic illness, such as asthma.