A nebuliser is a machine that creates a mist of medicine, which is then breathed in through a mask or mouthpiece. They are more commonly used to give high doses of reliever medicine in an emergency situation.

For example : In hospital or a doctor's surgery, but are no more effective than an inhaler and spacer for treating most asthma attacks.

If you have your own nebuliser it is important to have it serviced regularly and keep it in good working order.

Complementary therapies

Many people with asthma are interested in trying treatments and therapies that do not use prescribed medicines. These treatments and therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, homeopathy, hypnosis and Buteyko and other breathing techniques, are usually referred to as complementary therapies.

However there is little scientific evidence that complementary therapies are effective especially used on their own. That is why it is better to see them as 'complementary' and working alongside conventional medicines - rather than 'alternative'. If you are interested in trying one of the many complementary therapies available, you should speak to your doctor or asthma nurse first.

Complementary therapies and treatments should only ever be used alongside your prescribed medicines. (It is very important that you never stop taking your normal asthma medicines unless your doctor advises you otherwise).