Using my nebulizee
It seems over the past year using the nebulizer has become a problem.
I broncodilate and get breathless for hours after I use it. Doesn't seem to matter what the medication.
This is a big component of my daily med routine (or used to be)
I'm afraid to use it.
Anyone else have this experience?
Hi rmbroadh, and thanks for your post. You've brought up an interesting point! I do have a number of thoughts which relate to your concern.
As you may be aware, for some folks with COPD, the medication nebulizer system is the 'go to' treatment for their disease. Still others, find using a metered dose inhaler is what they prefer.
Over the many years of taking care of patients, I have found any number of them who, may have done well (at the onset), using the medication nebulizer. Then, over time, the nebulizer system seems to become less effective.
There are any number of reasons why this may have occurred. These can include; a defective nebulizer, a dirty nebulizer, or a particular type of medication becoming less effective for the patient, and a few others.
Clearly, the nebulizer issue can be corrected (if that is the reason), and/or the medication can be switched over to another type by the physician for the patient.
For some people who used the medication nebulizer exclusively, changing over to a metered dose inhaler (MDI), may be the solution. Sometimes adding another medication (by the physician) to one's regimen may result in an improvement.
Have you had an opportunity to discuss this with your physician? The doctor may be able to work with you and arrive at a solution that is suitable for your particular condition and situation.
What do you think?
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)Thanks for your input.
Nebulizer seems to be in good shape. I change filter often and clean dosing cup after each use.
Had same spasm problem in the hospital. Seems lungs just constrict for some reason.
All meds are inhalers at this point but are not as effective as the neb.
Don't think Doc really understands what I'm talking about.
See him in a couple of weeks and will discuss again.
Is it possible to just get too much medication at one time? Kinda overwhelms my lung capacity?
Should mention, I only have left lung and lower right lung lobe due to surgery (12 years ago).
Neb used to be my life saver when I had dyspnea attacks.
Again, thanks for responding.
Hi again, mbroadh, and thanks for your reply and further explanation. It sounds like your equipment is in good order.
The new information about your previous lung surgery may, in fact, have a bearing on how you are feeling now (12 years later). With diminished lung capacity, it is possible that this is the point where your capabilities (breathing-wise), have changed too. This is something you should discuss with your physician. If this doctor does not understand you may want to discuss this with a new, more knowledgeable and compassionate physician. As well, you may want to discuss this with the surgeon from 12 year ago - this doctor may also be able to shed some light as to what is going on.
I can't help thinking the constriction you described is possibly bronchospasm for you. Also, sometimes, with some patients, medications which used to be effective may have lost some of that effect. A doctor can certainly evaluate the medication regimen you are currently on (and have been on), and determine if some medications can be added or taken away.
These are my thoughts but, I would urge you to take this further by discussing it at length, and in detail, with your doctor to determine what can be done to help you treat these episodes now.
Warm regards,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
Thanks for responding.
Obviously, I missed the mark with my earlier post, and I apologize for that. So, I removed it and will see if I can learn something instead. rmbroadh - I will put you in my prayers for tonight and hope your doctor can help figure out what is going on and a way to resolve it.
Hi kloker and thanks for your comment. I am sorry you removed your post, here.
All of us have opinions and different experiences when it comes to this disease.
One never knows when what is being said will just 'hit the mark' for someone else who is reading the comments here.
The way I look at it, we ALL have something to contribute, based on our own personal journey and experiences with COPD. There are no bad ideas, thoughts, or suggestions - just opportunities for each of us to try to help one another.
I always value all of your contributions here in our online community!
Warm regards,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
