Do you have asthma, COPD, or bronchitis? If so, you're probably familiar with the relief provided by nebulizers. Nebulizers are medical devices that deliver medication to your lungs as a mist. They can be used to treat acute and chronic respiratory conditions.
When it comes to finding a suitable nebulizer for adults, there are several factors to consider and questions to ask. To help you make an informed decision, here's a buying guide for nebulizers with everything you need to know before you purchase.
1) Check the Type of Nebulizer
A compressed air nebulizer is the most common type, but there are also ultrasonic and mesh nebulizers. Compressed air nebulizers use compressed air to break up medication into a mist that can be inhaled; they tend to be most effective for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Ultrasonic nebulizers use high-frequency sound waves to break up medication into a fine mist. This type is suitable for people with COPD, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory conditions where the inhalation of larger particles may not be as effective. Mesh nebulizers use an electronic mesh to break up medication into tiny droplets; this type is suitable for people with allergies.
2) Check the Capacity
The capacity of a nebulizer is measured in milliliters (mL) per minute. Some nebulizers can be adjusted to deliver different amounts of medication, depending on the patient's needs. Choosing a nebulizer with a higher capacity is essential if you have more severe respiratory conditions like COPD or asthma.
3) Check the Portability
Nebulizers come in various sizes and shapes, so consider if you need something portable or if you can stay home. Portable nebulizers are lightweight and battery-powered, making them easy to take on the go; however, they may not be as powerful as the larger, more powerful home models. So a tabletop or countertop model might be the better choice if you need something that can provide a large amount of medication in one session.
4) Check the Additional Supplies
When you buy a disposable neb kit item, it is essential to check that all the necessary supplies are included.
Depending on the type of nebulizer, additional supplies may include a mouthpiece, air tube, medication cup or chamber, and filters. Some nebulizers also require additional power sources that must be replaced over time. To ensure you get the most out of your device, check with the manufacturer to find out which additional supplies are necessary and included in your purchase.
Final Words
Call The Breathing Shop to speak to our knowledgeable staff if you have questions about nebulizers and their features. The Breathing Shop offers free consultation by our respiratory therapist with 30+ years of experience using most respiratory products sold on The Breathing Shop. Our respiratory therapist can also help you set up and maintain your equipment.
