Nebulizer Treatment for Lung Conditions Available in Tampa, FL
A type of respiratory therapy, nebulizer treatment involves the use of a specialized drug-delivery device (nebulizer), which converts liquid medication into a fine mist. While the patient breathes normally through a special mouthpiece or mask, a steady mist of medication is delivered directly into their lungs.
South Tampa Immediate Care offers nebulizer therapy in Tampa, Florida, to help our patients manage several common respiratory conditions that cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In susceptible individuals, nebulizer treatment can also be used to help prevent difficulty breathing during exercise and other strenuous physical activities.
What Conditions Can Be Treated With Nebulizer Therapy?
Because a nebulizer is often the most efficient way to deliver medication directly into the lungs, nebulizer treatment is often recommended for managing the symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Pneumonia
Nebulizer medications work by loosening mucus in the lungs so it can be coughed out more easily, and by relaxing the airway muscles so air can move in and out of the lungs more efficiently.
What Does Nebulizer Treatment Involve?
First, a special mouthpiece or mask, which is connected to a nebulizer with plastic tubing, is placed over the patient’s mouth and nose. Next, the nebulizer passes compressed air through liquid medication to form tiny droplets. Once converted to an inhalable mist form, the medication passes from the nebulizer to the mouthpiece or mask via the plastic tubing. As the patient relaxes and breathes normally through the mouthpiece or mask, the medication is delivered deep into the lungs.
How Long Does Nebulizer Treatment Last?
Each nebulizer treatment session takes 10-15 minutes. Compared to the use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), nebulizer therapy is simpler and more relaxing for the patient. Because the treatment works passively, it does not require hand and breathing coordination, which often makes it the preferable option for children, elderly adults, disabled individuals, and anyone who cannot use an MDI. Furthermore, nebulizer therapy automatically ensures that the correct dosage is administered.
If you have questions about nebulizer treatment, contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Located at 602 S. Howard Ave. in Tampa, FL, our urgent care center is open every day during extended hours. Although we do not require appointments, we offer an online booking system for added convenience.
