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Nebulization requires the use of a nebulizer, a device to help reduce the symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, and so on. Nebulizers are often used for people at risk, such as the elderly. During nebulization, the medication is converted into a mist, and this is breathed in with the aid of a mouthpiece or face mask to ensure that the medication is fully inhaled. There are a few different types of nebulizers for you to consider before making your purchase.

Different Types of Nebulizers

A nebulizer cannot be purchased over the counter (OTC) as it requires a doctor’s prescription. However, it can be bought online, such as the online store at Patient Solutions.  Most nebulizers dispense medication, and the medication comes in different forms, such as antibiotics and sterile saline solutions. Corticosteroids can also be used to combat inflammation, such as flunisolide, triamcinolone, fluticasone, and budesonide. Bronchodilators are also used, and they include albuterol, salmeterol, levalbuterol, and formoterol. They usually help to widen the lung airways to promote better breathing and reduce mucus thickness so that it can be easily coughed out. The different types of nebulizers simply mean it works in subtly different ways.

• Jet Nebulizer

They are non-portable and are the traditional nebulizers compared to their more modern counterparts. They are the cheapest breathing device to help people breathe better. A jet nebulizer converts liquid medication into a fine mist using a compressor, allowing the medication to be inhaled efficiently. They have been in the market for a very long time and they are also very robust.

• Mesh Nebulizer

They use a mesh plate with little holes that convert liquid medicine into fine mist that can be breathed in efficiently by the patient. These nebulizers are quite new in the market. As a new kind of device, however, it is highly efficient as it can finish the therapy in 10 minutes. Mesh devices, unlike jet nebulizers, are also highly portable allowing them to be carried around freely. Mesh nebulizers are the most expensive nebulizers.

• Ultrasonic Nebulizer

As a novel form of technology, it utilizes ultrasonic waves to convert the medication into a fine mist so that the patient with respiratory conditions will be able to inhale it in easily. However, the only downside is that ultrasonic nebulizers cannot be used alongside medication in suspension form. Instead, ultrasonic nebulizers need to be used with medication in solution form.

Nebulizer Caring Tips

There are some tips to care for your nebulizer to ensure it lasts longer. After all, some of them, such as the mesh nebulizer aren’t cheap. Here are some key things to note:

• Rinse the nebulizer cup with warm water and dry it in the open
• Disinfect the equipment after washing with disinfectants or vinegar/water solution after three days of treatment
• Keep the medicine in a cool, dry storage place

At Patient Solutions, we ensure you make an informed decision before purchasing a nebulizer by explaining to you the different types of nebulizers. This is important as you should purchase a nebulizer based on your needs and budget. We also have a variety of health equipment too. Contact us to find out more!