Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV)

Overview

Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) is a medical treatment used to help people who have difficulty breathing. It provides a way to assist with breathing without the need for invasive procedures like intubation (inserting a tube into the windpipe). NIV uses a machine to deliver air or oxygen through a mask or other device placed over the nose or mouth. It helps improve oxygen levels and relieve strain on the lungs allowing the body to breathe more easily.

Why Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Treatment is required?

Helps people with breathing difficulties due to lung conditions like COPD or asthma.

Improves oxygen levels when the body struggles to breathe properly.

Reduces the need for invasive procedures like intubation or ventilators.

It’s a gentler approach to assisting with breathing.

Key advantages of Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Treatment:

• Gentle and comfortable: No need for tubes in the throat or invasive surgery.
• Quick relief: Helps improve breathing and oxygen levels almost immediately.
• Less risk: Reduces the chance of infections compared to invasive methods.
• Convenient: Uses a mask or nasal device instead of a ventilator tube.

How should you prepare yourself before taking Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Treatment?

Wear loose and comfortable clothing to make it easier for the device to fit.

Inform your doctor about any breathing or heart conditions you have.

Ensure the device fits properly and ask your doctor or nurse to check the mask or device.

Relax and stay calm, NIV is designed to be non-invasive and gentle.

How Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Treatment is performed?

A mask or nasal device is placed over your nose or mouth.

The NIV machine delivers air or oxygen under pressure to assist your breathing.

You breathe normally as the machine supports your lungs and helps improve oxygen flow.

The treatment can be done while you are sitting, lying down or resting comfortably.

What you can expect Before procedure, During procedure, and After procedure?

1. Before:

You will receive a full explanation of how NIV works and what to expect.

2. During:

You will be asked to wear a mask or nasal device. It might feel a bit uncomfortable at first but you will get used to it.

3. After:

You will feel relieved as your breathing improves. Your doctor will monitor your progress to ensure everything is working well.

Risk and Potential Complications:

• Discomfort: Wearing the mask or device may feel a bit uncomfortable.
• Skin irritation: Prolonged use of the mask could cause mild irritation on the skin.
• Nasal congestion: Some people may experience dryness or congestion in the nose.
• Difficulty adjusting: In rare cases it might be hard to get used to the pressure or mask.

Results/Outcomes:

• Improved breathing: You will breathe easier and feel less out of breath.
• Increased oxygen levels: The treatment helps raise oxygen levels in the blood.
• Reduced hospital stay: Many people can avoid more invasive procedures and go home sooner.