Tips for Choosing the Best Nebulizer, In accordance with Your Needs
Nebulizer is a medical device used to insert a drug in the form of a vapor to be inhaled into the lungs. Typically, the airways will filter out any foreign particles from entering the lungs. However, because the vapor particles are very, very small, the drug will enter the targeted part of the lung.
Therefore, it is important to choose the best nebulizer for maximum treatment results. The efficient mode of drug delivery means that the effects of the drug will work faster even in lower doses, thereby decreasing the risk of side effects.
Types of nebulizer available on the market
There are many types and models of nebulizer, although the function remains the same. The three most common types of nebulizer are compressor nebulizer, ultrasonic nebulizer, and mesh nebulizer.
The type of nebulizer you choose will affect the duration of treatment, particle size, portability, tool resistance, and many other aspects of therapy.
1. Compressor Nebulizer
Compressor nebulizer is supported by a pressurized gas that flows at high speed through a liquid drug, to convert it into a vapor form. This type is cheaper than the others, but usually uses electric power and produces sound.
2. Ultrasonic nebulizer
This type produces high-frequency vibrations to convert a liquid drug into an aerosol vapor. Ultrasonic nebulizer does not sound noisy, small size, easy to carry everywhere, and operated by battery or electric power. This nebulizer works faster than others, but it is inefficient to transmit suspensions or viscous liquids.
3. Nebulizer Mesh
Nebulizer mesh uses electricity or ultrasonic waves to pass the liquid drug through the mesh (membrane vibrates with the laser drill hole). This mechanism produces very fine liquid droplets through the hole.
The mesh nebulizer is considered the fastest, most efficient, and more expensive inhaler tool than any other. However, this inhaler does not produce sound, and its operation uses batteries making it practical for traveling.
Tips on choosing the best nebulizer
While your doctor will suggest which nebulizer suits you, you may still be able to make choices in terms of brand, size, and other aspects. Consider everything well before you buy it because the nebulizer will be an investment in your health and wellness.
Here's what you need to consider before landing your choices on one product:
1. Does the model match your health condition?
The choice of model should be tailored to your condition. Different diseases require different ways of treatment. Upper respiratory diseases such as the common cold, may require a larger particle size of the drug vapor, while lower respiratory tract diseases such as COPD require smaller particle size of the drug.
Meanwhile, people who experience several respiratory illnesses at a time need a nebulizer that gives different particle sizes and can be adjusted. Nebulizer jet compressor neb can offer different particle sizes, while ultrasonic and mesh offer consistent particle size. More precisely, ask your doctor directly for a nebulizer recommendation that can give you the right particle size for your condition.
2. Your age and your physical and cognitive abilities
Elderly and infants and children may have limited ability to operate the device. Especially in the elderly, cognitive decline in the brain can make it difficult for them to grasp and move the device. A similar situation may also be experienced by people suffering from arthritis, vision impairment, and who have complicated treatment regimens.
For people who have limited ability to use complex inhalation techniques, it may be better to choose a simple nebulizer. Before purchasing a nebulizer, make sure your doctor knows the problems you have, including the dexterity or decreased brain function.
If you shop for your child, a nebulizer with a low voice and that produces soft steam fog becomes a more comfortable option. You can search for versatile models with optional accessories that are child-friendly. There are also colorful options available for children. Choose a nebulizer that is practical to you as a nurse.
If your child or loved one needs nebulizer therapy, it is also important for other caregivers who may be managing their treatment to understand how to use the nebulizer correctly.
3. Tool efficiency
Your doctor will suggest the most efficient nebulizer for you to use. Before that, know that certain drugs work best with certain types of nebulizer, and some drugs cannot be used on certain nebulizer. Another thing to keep in mind is that therapy will only work effectively if the device is properly operated.
Make sure you are really capable of using the nebulizer after being checked by a doctor. If you can not use this device properly, discuss with your health care provider to find an alternative. If your child is using a nebulizer, make sure his doctor periodically re-evaluates to see if he needs to replace his aerosol device as he grows up.
4. Is the tool easy to carry?
It is important to choose a device that is easy to use according to your lifestyle. If you are the type of person who travels frequently, consider buying a nebulizer that is comfortable to use and necessary accessories like an electric charger to carry with you.
On the other hand, if you use nebulizer more often at home, for example for children and the elderly, you can choose a stationary nebulizer that is usually more economical. Some people prefer to buy two types of nebulizer. If you are not sure what type to buy, it might be better to use a more convenient portable model.
5. Frequency, location, and time of therapy
When and where therapy is needed may also affect the selection of the device. Regular therapy, once or twice a day does not need a portable device. In the meantime, if you have more frequent treatment, you may need a portable device to quickly get treatment when needed.
6. Can it be used for multiple doses?
Many patients are prescribed more than one inhaled drug. To avoid confusion about how to use each device for each drug, ask your health care provider to recommend a nebulizer that fits all your medications.
Using the same device or reducing the number of different devices will make it easier for you to adhere to the therapy while minimizing confusion about the dosage and how it goes. Some nebulizers allow several separate drugs to be inhaled at the same time, but do not incorporate the drug unless it is known not to interact negatively with each other.
7. Endurance
Make sure the nebulizer you choose has good endurance so long as it is used and cleaned repeatedly in the long run. The nebulizer lasts longer when properly treated which also involves checking the air filter regularly and changing it when necessary.
8. Make sure the price matches the budget estimate
Nebulizer is a long-term investment for your health, so you should maximize your budget. It is important to choose aerosol devices that are affordable but still effective.
If you purchase a nebulizer online, try ordering all the accessories you need at once to save on shipping costs. You can also search for special rates and shipping promotions. If the best tool is not in your budget estimate, discuss with your doctor for more affordable options.
9. Device accessories
Find out what kind of nebulizer accessories you need or like. Do you prefer a face mask or mouthpiece? If you choose to use a mask for your child, there are a selection of funny masks that help them feel more comfortable making therapy as their routine.
Changing accessories and timely filters will help make your nebulizer system last longer, which saves you money in the long run. Masks are available in various sizes. You should find out what size you need to replace before buying a new one. Also, find out what types of filters, medicinal glasses, and other spare parts you need for your nebulizer.
Many people are lacking in understanding the principles of nebulizer treatment and are not aware of when their nebulizer is damaged. Therefore, training on how to use and care of the equipment should be provided periodically by professional medical personnel who understand your condition.
