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Nebulizer: meaning, definitions and examples

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nebulizer

 

[ˈnɛbjʊˌlaɪzər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical device

A nebulizer is a device that turns liquid medicine into a mist that a person can inhale. It is commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Synonyms

breathing machine, inhaler, neb.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nebulizer

A medical device used to deliver medication in the form of a mist inhaled into the lungs. It is commonly used for patients with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.

  • The doctor prescribed a nebulizer for his chronic asthma
  • She needed to use the nebulizer three times a day
inhaler

A small handheld device used to administer medication directly to the lungs, often for asthma or COPD. It's usually portable and used for quick relief.

  • She always carries an inhaler in her bag in case of an asthma attack
  • The doctor showed him how to properly use the inhaler
neb

A shortened slang term for 'nebulizer'. It is often used informally, especially among healthcare workers or patients familiar with the device.

  • Don't forget to bring your neb to the appointment today
  • He prefers using the neb because it's faster and more effective
breathing machine

A general term which can refer to any machine that assists in breathing, including nebulizers and more complex equipment like ventilators. This term might be used by non-medical professionals.

  • After the surgery, he needed a breathing machine to help him breathe
  • The child relied on the breathing machine until his lungs got stronger

Examples of usage

  • The doctor prescribed a nebulizer for the patient with asthma.
  • She uses a nebulizer to help manage her breathing difficulties.

Interesting Facts

Medical Use

  • Nebulizers are often used for delivering medications to patients with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues.
  • They can convert medicine quickly into a mist, allowing it to be inhaled deeper into the lungs than with just a regular inhaler.
  • Unlike inhalers, nebulizers can deliver larger doses and are useful for those who may struggle to use an inhaler correctly.

History

  • The first nebulizer was developed in the 19th century, using steam to aerosolize medicine.
  • Electric nebulizers began to appear in the 1930s, revolutionizing treatment by making it easier and more effective.
  • Originally, nebulizers were bulky and not portable; modern designs are much smaller, allowing them to be used at home or on the go.

Science

  • The process of aerosolization in nebulizers relies on physics principles, where a liquid is transformed into small droplets to create a mist.
  • Particles in the mist must be of a certain size (usually 5 micrometers) to reach the alveoli in the lungs effectively.
  • The nebulization process can be affected by factors such as the machine's power and the type of medication used.

Cultural References

  • Nebulizers gained notable attention during the COVID-19 pandemic as a potential treatment method for respiratory symptoms.
  • Various portrayals in media depict characters using nebulizers, emphasizing their role in prevalent respiratory conditions in society.
  • Awareness campaigns often highlight the importance of nebulizers in children's healthcare, especially for asthma management.

Technology

  • Advancements in nebulizer technology have led to the development of 'mesh' nebulizers that require less power and produce less noise.
  • Some modern nebulizers are even Bluetooth-enabled, allowing for tracking of medication use via smartphones.
  • Integrated features like timers and medication reminders enhance compliance and improve treatment outcomes for patients.

Translations

Translations of the word "nebulizer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nebulizador

🇮🇳 नेबुलाइज़र

🇩🇪 Vernebler

🇮🇩 nebulizer

🇺🇦 небулайзер

🇵🇱 nebulizator

🇯🇵 ネブライザー

🇫🇷 nébuliseur

🇪🇸 nebulizador

🇹🇷 nebülizör

🇰🇷 네뷸라이저

🇸🇦 جهاز تبخير

🇨🇿 nebulizér

🇸🇰 nebulizér

🇨🇳 雾化器

🇸🇮 nebulizator

🇮🇸 úðalyf

🇰🇿 небулайзер

🇬🇪 ნებულაიზერი

🇦🇿 nebulayzer

🇲🇽 nebulizador

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,819 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.