Inhalations are considered the best method for treating respiratory diseases. They ensure the delivery of the drug directly to the site of inflammation. Therefore, they rarely cause side effects. If earlier inhalation was difficult to carry out, only steam procedures were available, now modern devices have appeared - nebulizers. They deliver a medicinal solution at room temperature, breaking it into tiny particles that reach all parts of the respiratory tract. But for the procedure to be more effective, you need to know what nebulizers are available and how to choose them correctly.
What is it for and how does it work
A nebulizer is a device that sprays a medicinal solution. It is supplied using a stream of air. The medicine breaks into small particles, forming a mist. Thanks to this, it penetrates the respiratory system faster and fights the disease. A nebulizer consists of a medicine cup from which a tube with a breathing mask extends. It is worn on the face or placed against the mouth and nose. When inhaling, fog enters the patient's respiratory tract.
Important! The medicinal solution does not heat up, which allows the device to be used for any disease.
Such procedures have the following effect:
- make breathing easier;
- relieve bronchospasm;
- reduce swelling;
- help remove mucus from the sinuses;
- soften and moisturize the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract;
- help with expectoration of phlegm;
- reduce inflammation.
Operating principle and design of the inhaler
Any home inhaler consists of several basic elements:
1. Housings with a built-in container into which the solution is poured;
2. Flexible hose with a valve;
3. Attachments in the form of a mouthpiece, mask or nasal tubes.
A medicinal solution is poured into the tank of the inhaler, which the device must deliver to its destination: trachea, bronchi, lungs. But the method of delivering the drug will largely depend on the design of the device.
If this is a regular steam apparatus, the composition inside it is simply brought to a boil, and the resulting steam naturally rises up the hose. In more complex models of inhalers, a compressor is installed in the chamber, creating excess pressure inside.
The medicine is actually squeezed into the tube, and then goes to the nebulizer, which breaks the liquid into tiny droplets.
Indications
Indications for use of the device are respiratory tract diseases. If conventional steam inhalations are carried out mainly for colds or bronchitis, then a nebulizer can be used for various pathologies:
- ARVI, influenza;
- sinusitis, acute rhinitis;
- laryngitis, tracheitis, pharyngitis;
- bronchitis, acute or chronic;
- pneumonia;
- bronchial asthma;
- cystic fibrosis.
Attention! Inhalation with a nebulizer helps relieve cough in those who smoke. They are recommended for people who have to talk for a long time to soften their throat. Such inhalations also help protect the mucous membrane from exposure to harmful vapors and dry air.
Kinds
Nebulizers appeared not so long ago, but quickly became popular. Nowadays many varieties of such devices are produced. They differ not only in manufacturer. There are special devices for children and adults. Nebulizers also differ in the way they produce a medicinal aerosol.
Type
Based on the principle of operation, there are 4 types of such devices.
- A compression nebulizer is an electric compressor. It supplies a stream of air, which, passing through the chamber with the medicinal solution, breaks it into a dispersed aerosol. These are the most common devices, as they can be used with any medications. The disadvantages include the loud noise that the device makes. In addition, compressor nebulizers take up a lot of space and operate on mains power. And inhalation can only be carried out in a sitting position.
- An ultrasonic nebulizer creates an aerosol using ultrasonic waves. They break the medicine into tiny particles that reach the smallest bronchi and alveoli. Such devices are compact and operate silently. Another advantage is that inhalation can be carried out for small children and bedridden patients. But ultrasonic nebulizers have a drawback: some medications are destroyed when in contact with ultrasound.
- Mesh nebulizers or membrane inhalers break the solution into small particles using a mesh membrane. In this case, the vibration frequency can be adjusted, resulting in particles of different sizes. Such devices are convenient and versatile. Inhalation can be carried out lying down, during sleep, for infants. Any medications are suitable for them.
- The steam inhaler is now rarely used. It does not form an aerosol, but vapor due to the heating of the medicine. The patient needs to inhale this steam. Suitable only for the treatment of diseases of the nasopharynx; the medicine does not penetrate into the deep parts of the respiratory tract.
According to the age
Children's and adult devices differ not only in appearance, but also in the size of the mask.
- Mesh nebulizers are more suitable for children. They can be used even when the child is sleeping. When choosing a device for children, you need to pay attention to the noise level, as the child may be scared. To make the noisy device not so scary, compressor inhalers are produced in the form of cars, trains or animals. Children's devices also differ in small attachments and masks.
- Adult nebulizers have standard size nozzles. The kit usually includes a face mask and a nose piece. When choosing, you need to consider what the device will be used for. Bedridden patients and elderly people are better off choosing ultrasonic or mesh nebulizers.
Compressor devices
The principle of operation of such a device is to distribute compressed oxygen, air or a medicinal mixture by aerosol spraying. The nebulizer creates the optimal number of droplets needed to penetrate both the upper and lower respiratory tract. Any mixture of medications can be used in a compression nebulizer, without any restrictions.
Flaws
The device makes a loud buzzing sound when operating. However, if the device is purchased for a child who likes to run around the house while the vacuum cleaner is running (and there are quite a few such children), then a compression device is more suitable than any other. The sounds of a vacuum cleaner and a nebulizer are similar and a mother will be able to attract the attention of her restless baby by setting the device to spray. While the child is looking for the source of the sound, the mother can easily carry out the inhalation procedure.
Video
The video shows a compressor inhaler, which, according to reviews, is the best option for home use (if a small child is not afraid of noise). If the child is afraid of a noisy device, then read the article Silent inhaler.
Ultrasonic devices
During inhalation, the medicinal mixture is sprayed using high-frequency vibration of the piezoelectric crystals of the device. The device produces minimal noise during operation, which is optimal for inhalations for a small child.
The device has disadvantages:
- It is not recommended to use this device for spraying antibiotics and suspensions, since ultrasound destroys the structure of drugs.
- When using the device, difficulties arise in adjusting the particle size required for spraying.
Advantages and disadvantages
All doctors admit that inhalation is an effective procedure for treating respiratory diseases. With the advent of nebulizers, it has become more convenient. Such devices have many advantages:
- they are compact and easy to use, they can be used at home;
- unlike steam inhalations, the procedure can be performed even on small children and bedridden patients;
- thanks to the delivery of the medicinal aerosol to the site of the disease, they have a rapid effect;
- you can use any drugs;
- In order for the medicine to enter the respiratory tract, it is not necessary to inhale deeply, so the device can be used in any physical condition of the patient.
Attention! The disadvantages include the rather high price of the device. Therefore, those who have chronic respiratory diseases or young children who often suffer from chronic diseases buy them.
Why do you need an inhaler for children?
Due to weak immunity, children get sick more often. You don’t particularly want to stuff your baby with medications, since it can disrupt the functions of the gastrointestinal tract and weaken the body’s protective functions even more. In this regard, in the initial stages of the disease, with a mild course of the viral disease, inhalation therapy is prescribed.
Why do children need an inhaler:
- to stop the spread of infection, destroy bacteria, viruses;
- increase the body's protective functions;
- relieve painful symptoms.
The device is filled with products based on natural ingredients or medications with a minimum number of side effects. If anyone is wondering if an inhaler is necessary for children, the answer is yes. The procedures help stop the pathological process in the initial stages, prevent complications, and relieve unpleasant symptoms.
Why does a child need an inhaler to restore the functions of the respiratory system? In addition to steam devices, there are portable inhalers in the form of cans. They are intended for the treatment of diseases with airway obstruction - asthma, COPD. Inhalations relieve an acute attack and prevent its occurrence.
How to choose
Sometimes your doctor recommends purchasing a nebulizer. If a person often has respiratory tract diseases, a prolonged cough or chronic diseases, such a device should be available at home. But the wide variety of models confuses many. Choosing the right device is difficult. To do it right, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
- It is important what medications will be used. If you plan to use them for the whole family and for various diseases, compressor devices are better; they can be used with any medications.
- It is necessary to consider for what disease and for whom the device is needed. If you need to treat a bedridden patient or a small child, it is better to buy an ultrasonic or mesh nebulizer. For asthmatics, a compact model that can be carried with you is needed.
- The performance of the device is important. High-performance nebulizers that create an aerosol quickly will be required to relieve bronchospasm or an allergic reaction. They are also needed by restless children.
- You need to make sure that the device has several attachments. It is best to have masks of different sizes, mouth tubes, and nasal attachments.
- Often the determining factor is the volume of the container for the medicinal solution.
- It is also recommended to pay attention to the duration of its operation.
Solutions
Even in compressor nebulizers, which work with any medications, it is not recommended to use some drugs:
- essential oils can cause pulmonary edema;
- herbal decoctions and tinctures contain large particles;
- drugs that do not act locally
Important! The solution for inhalation must be prescribed by the attending physician.
For dry cough
Such devices help relieve dry cough. They soften and moisturize the mucous membrane. But you need to choose the right medicine. Most often used:
- "Berodual" dilates the bronchi, relieves spasm;
- "Berotec" is used for bronchial asthma and relieves spasms;
- alkaline mineral waters moisturize the mucous membranes;
- "Ambroxol" helps remove viscous sputum;
- Fluimucil relieves dry cough.
From wet
If the cough is wet and a lot of sputum is formed, inhalations also help. They make it easier to remove. The following drugs are used:
- "Lazolvan";
- "Acetylcysteine";
- "Mukaltin";
- "Gedelix";
- "Pertussin."
Compatibility of nebulizers with types of medications:
| Device type | Noise level, dB | Medicine access area | Suitable drugs |
| Steam | Less than 50 | Upper parts of the nasopharynx | Herbal decoctions, essential oils, mineral water and saline solution |
| Compressor | 50-58 | Upper, middle and lower parts of the nasopharynx and larynx | Mucolytics, antibiotics, hormonal drugs |
| Ultrasonic | 5 | Saline and alkaline solutions, bronchodilators, glucocorticosteroids | |
| Mesh nebulizer | 3-5 | Any drugs intended for inhalation |
Inhalers differ in the shape of the body: they can be compact devices powered by batteries, or separate units that require connection to an electrical network, or stationary devices. For children, manufacturers are developing nebulizers in a bright case with cheerful images or in the shape of a train, a whale, and others that are understandable to a child. Thus, the treatment process is combined with game elements.
EXPERTOLOGY experts have identified the best inhalers in the categories of compressor, ultrasonic and mesh nebulizers, selected according to user reviews, and rated these devices.
Popular brands
There are many models of nebulizers available now. When choosing, it is better to pay attention to the most popular brands.
- Omron is the most famous brand specializing in the production of medical devices. All types of nebulizers are produced. They are easy to use and reliable.
- B. well produces universal appliances for the whole family. There are models in children's design. They are easy to use and based on the latest technology.
- Philips is a well-known household appliance manufacturing company. Therefore, you can be sure that the nebulizer will be reliable. Different models are available for adults and children.
- Microlife specializes in medical devices. Therefore, these nebulizers are of high quality and ease of use.
- Little doctor produces silent compact devices. The kit comes with a lot of attachments. Compressor models are available in children's designs.
Instructions for use
Once the device is selected, you need to study the rules for its use. They are simple, but there are several features:
- You cannot be distracted or talk during the procedure;
- It is not advisable to eat or smoke an hour before and after the procedure
- the mask should fit tightly to the face;
- The nebulizer container must be refilled immediately before the procedure; the solution cannot be left in it;
- you need to breathe evenly, if pathologies of the respiratory tract, and not the nasopharynx, are being treated, it is advisable to inhale through the mouth;
- if possible, hold your breath for a few seconds before exhaling;
- after using hormonal and antibacterial agents, you need to wash and rinse your mouth;
- After use, the tube, mask and medicine container must be rinsed and dried.
Reviews
Nebulizers have only recently begun to be used at home. But you can find a lot of positive reviews.
Irina, Saratov
Several years ago I purchased an Omron compressor nebulizer. The doctor recommended it to me because the child was often sick. The device is very convenient, I quickly learned how to use it. It makes the child's cough go away faster.
Natalya, Moscow
I was advised to buy a B.Well mesh neuter to treat asthma. I liked the fact that it is compact and silent. It runs on batteries, so you can carry it with you. It’s convenient that you can do inhalation while lying down and in your sleep - when a child got sick, this helped me a lot.
Nebulizers help in the treatment of various respiratory diseases. By choosing the right device depending on the patient’s age and the medications needed, you can speed up recovery and make breathing easier.
Rating
| Nomination | Name | Spray speed | Nutrition | Noise level | Prices, rub |
| Best reviewed for the whole family | B.Well PRO-110 | 0.4 ml/min | from the network | average | from 1420 to 3250 |
| Omron Comp Air NE-C24 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | average | from 3229 to 5183 | |
| Best for kids | Omron Comp Air NE-C24 Kids | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | average | from 3351 to 5775 |
| B.Well WN-114 child | 1 ml/min | from batteries, from mains | short | from 4260 to 5995 | |
| Little Doctor LD-212C | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1668 to 2810 | |
| The best nebulizer in the form of a toy | B.Well PRO-115 | 0.4 ml/min | from the network | average | from 2240 to 3750 |
| MED2000 Penguin | 0.2 ml/min | from the network | average | from 2744 to 3590 | |
| Philips Respironics Sami the Seal HH1335/00 | 0.15 ml/min | from the network | high | from 4538 to 5888 | |
| AND CN-232 | 0.2 ml/min | from the network | high | from 2670 to 5095 | |
| Best for adults | Omron Comp Air NE-C21 Basic | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | short | from 2350 to 3522 |
| The best compressor inhalers | Omron Comp Air NE-C300 Complete | 0.7 ml/min | from the network | high | from 4279 to 6240 |
| B.Well WN-117 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1630 to 3165 | |
| The best ultrasonic inhalers | AND UN-231 | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | short | from 2618 to 5149 |
| Little Doctor LD-250U | 1.5 ml/min | from mains, from battery | average | from 2749 to 4988 | |
| The best mesh nebulizers | Omron Micro Air NE-U22 | 0.25 ml/min | from batteries | short | from 11400 to 19100 |
| B.Well WN-114 adult | 1 ml/min | from batteries | short | from 3312 to 5827 | |
| Best inexpensive | Armed 403E | 0.1 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1570 to 2350 |
| Best steam | B.Well WN-118 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | from 1475 to 3365 | |
| Best for Travel | B.Well WN-114 child | 1ml/min | from batteries, from mains | short | from4260 to 5995 |
Best reviewed for the whole family
B.Well PRO-110
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable
- Compact
- Not very noisy
- Includes adult and children's masks, mouthpiece, and nose piece.
- Sprays well
Flaws
- A little heavy if you take it with you on trips
Omron Comp Air NE-C24
Advantages
- Easy
- Minimum drug consumption
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Not noisy
Flaws
- No shut-off feature
The best nebulizer for children
Omron Comp Air NE-C24 Kids
Advantages
- Doesn't scare the child
- Three sizes of masks
- Quiet
- Comfortable
- Easy
Flaws
- No separate nose piece
- Price
B.Well WN-114 child
Advantages
- Compact
- Silent
- Easy
- Mobile
- Possibility to operate on batteries
Flaws
- Batteries drain quickly
- Expensive
- Fragile
- The membrane gets wet
Little Doctor LD-212C
Advantages
- Several nozzle options
- Budget
- Availability of replaceable nozzles
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
Flaws
- Noisy
- Doesn't work occasionally
The best nebulizer in the form of a toy
B.Well PRO-115
Advantages
- Qualitative
- Children's design
- Lots of attachments
- Doesn't make noise
- Practical
Flaws
- Size
MED2000 Penguin
Advantages
- Comfortable
- Easy
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for any age
- Equipment
Flaws
- A bit noisy
Philips Respironics Sami the Seal HH1335/00
Advantages
- Practicality
- Compactness
- Design
- Convenience
- Ease of use
Flaws
- No
AND CN-232
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Children's design
- Reliable
Flaws
- Can't use oils
- Fragile container
- Noisy
Best for adults
Omron Comp Air NE-C21 Basic
Advantages
- Not noisy
- Small
- Compact
- Low price
- Multiple attachments
Flaws
- Low performance
- Sprays poorly
The best compressor inhalers
Omron Comp Air NE-C300 Complete
Advantages
- Compact
- Easy to use
- Multiple Spray Modes
- Interesting design
- Easy to use
Flaws
- Noisy
- Price
- May leak when tilted
B.Well WN-117
Advantages
- Price
- Comfortable
- Easy to use
- Suitable for children and adults
- Multiple attachments
Flaws
- A bit noisy
The best ultrasonic inhalers
AND UN-231
Advantages
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Quiet
- Easy
Flaws
- Solution spills when tilted
Little Doctor LD-250U
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Masks for children and adults
- Spare containers for medicine
Flaws
- It is necessary to hold the container with the solution
The best mesh nebulizers
Omron Micro Air NE-U22
Advantages
- Silent
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Easy
Flaws
- A little expensive
- Fast battery consumption
B.Well WN-114 adult
Advantages
- Compact
- Easy
- Silent
- Powered by mains and batteries
Flaws
- Unreliable plastic camera
- The membrane often gets clogged
The best inexpensive nebulizer
Armed 403E
Advantages
- Not expensive
- Qualitative
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
Flaws
- Noisy
Best steam
B.Well WN-118
Advantages
- Low price
- Easy to use
- Nozzle for children and adults
- It turns itself off
- Compact
Flaws
- Steam temperature is not regulated
Best for Travel
B.Well WN-114 child
Advantages
- Compact
- Silent
- Two masks
- Easy to clean
Flaws
- Price
- Fragility
- Batteries drain quickly
The best models of steam inhalers
They work on the principle of heating a liquid and evaporating it. The steam can reach a temperature of 50 degrees; if the patient’s body temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees, the device cannot be used. Use is not allowed if you have diseases of the cardiovascular system or tuberculosis.
Berdsk Romashka-3
An inexpensive multifunctional inhaler with an average cost of 1200 rubles. The set includes a nozzle for inhalation, facial baths - a cosmetic procedure that helps cleanse the skin and nourish it with useful components, aromatherapy - dispersing steam with essential oils. The steam temperature is adjustable, the position of the nozzles can also be changed. Mains powered.
Advantages:
- Multifunctionality.
- Facial skin cleansing and healing effect.
- Large face cap with the ability to change its position, convenient for cleaning the face.
- Heats liquid quickly.
- You can add herbal decoctions and essential oils.
Flaws:
- Questionable build quality and components.
B.Well WN-118
The average cost is 2300 rubles. Connects to the electrical network and supplies steam particles larger than 10 microns in size for the treatment of the upper respiratory tract. Can work continuously for up to 7 minutes. It is supplied with only a regular children's mask; there is no infant mask. There is a mask for cosmetic procedures.
Advantages:
- Budget price.
- Efficiency.
- You can use herbal infusions and oils.
- Easy maintenance and use.
- Comfortable steam temperature.
Flaws:
- There is no mask for infants.
MED2000 SI 03/SI 02
Inhalers for children, made in the form of toys, will cost about 2,000 rubles on average. The main difference: SI 03 is made in the shape of a dog, SI 02 - in the shape of a cow. The reservoir is designed for 8 ml of liquid, masks for children and adults, no infant masks.
Advantages:
- Attractive shape for children.
- Comes with a mask for children and adults.
- Italian design, high quality parts.
- Comfortable steam temperature.
Flaws:
- There is no infant mask.
