Nebulizing for Illness

One of my best tips for lung support when an illness strikes is nebulization. I know that not everyone will feel comfortable with this, but we’ve been nebulizing for a few years and have had amazing success with it. It is crucial to adequately dilute. You always need to do what is right for you and this is not intended to act as medical advice. With any concerning symptoms (e.g. wheezing, restrictions, shortness of breath, etc.) it is imperative you seek medical attention. 

The treatments are well absorbed in the lungs and can provide quick relief. We've used these a few times during illness and they have helped so much. I know for many any lung involvement can be scary and this can provide so much peace of mind. Choosing what to nebulize is based on symptoms. It is key to take deep breaths while nebulizing to make sure the solution is getting to the airways. The type of nebulizer you have won't matter without these deep breaths to drive the solution into the lungs.

Nebulizers- there are many on amazon. The portable ones are easy to use and transport, but they seem to break often. 

Here is a larger compressor style that I also use and like, you will also want to grab a mask for this one if interested. I like these masks for adults (can be used more than once, just wash and dry), and these masks for kids.

Sterile Saline- These are great to have on hand to flush eyes and great to dilute the nebulizer solutions. This is also a great option for babies when dealing with mucus/cough. 

NAC- It is great at breaking up and helping to expel mucus. With NAC you use make sure it is pure without any other ingredients. 1/16 tsp in 7-10 ml sterile water or saline. Every 6 hours. This can be really irritating to the throat so make sure you dilute well and it may be only tolerated for a few minutes.

Magnesium Chloride- It is excellent at relaxing airways, decreasing inflammation, 1/4 tsp in 7-10 ml sterile saline. Every 6 hours. This can also irritating and can cause a lot of coughing so proper dilution is crucial. It may be only tolerated for a few minutes. 

Hydrogen Peroxide- Great for bacterial and viral infections, can also help the throat. 1/4 tsp 3% food grade hydrogen peroxide: 7 ml with sterile saline. Every 6 hours.

Hypochlorus Acid (e.g. Briotech)- it is a great anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal agent. Best used in early illness. 1:3 briotech to saline ratio for kids, 1:2 for adults. If you purchase the oral rinse it does not need to be diluted. Every 6 hours.