How to Choose a Nebulizer?

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Omronhealthcare-ap.com/healthblog/en
How to Choose a Nebulizer? A nebulizer is a
medical device that is used by patients with wide
range of respiratory illnesses such as asthma,
bronchitis, chronic cough and more. The main
function of a nebulizer is to convert liquid
medication into a fine mist and deliver this
medication to the appropriate part of the airways
to relieve symptoms of respiratory
illnesses. Therefore, selecting the most
appropriate device for drug delivery is very
important for optimal results. Increase in
efficiency of drug delivery means that the
medication will act faster and at a lower dosage
which will reduce the incidence of side
effects. Types of nebulizer There is a variety
of nebulizers and each type has unique features
although they function similarly. Generally,
there are three types of electrical nebulizers
the compressor nebulizer, the ultrasonic
nebulizer, and the mesh nebulizer. The type of
nebulizer chosen will influence treatment
duration, particle size, portability, durability
and many other aspects of the therapy. The
ultrasonic nebulizers are typically used in
clinical settings, compressor and mesh types are
typically considered for home use Compressor
Nebulizers Compressor nebulizers is powered by a
compressed gas that flows at high velocity
through the liquid medicine to turn it into
aerosol form. These are less expensive and offers
a range of particle sizes output. Also known as
tabletop nebulizers, they are heavy and are not
meant to be carried around. They may be more
suitable for those who prefer stationary use.
They require an electric outlet for operation
and have a tendency to be a little noisy. Mesh
Nebulizers Mesh nebulizers use electricity or
ultrasonic wave and the liquid drug is pushed
through a vibrating mesh/membrane through laser
drilled holes, producing very fine droplets
through the holes. It is considered the fastest
working device. It operates on a battery power
supply quietly and efficiently. Given its
handheld size, its ultra-compact and portable
compared to compressor nebulizers. Choosing the
Right Nebulizer
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• Omronhealthcare-ap.com/healthblog/en
• Although your health care provider will recommend
  a suitable nebulizer for your medication
  administration, you may still have choices when
  it comes to brand, size, or maximum input of
  medication. If youve decided that using a
  nebulizer for respiratory treatment is right for
  you or a loved one then here are some guides in
  finding a nebulizer that should work for you.
• Compatibility with the medical condition
• The choice of the device should be tailored to
  your condition. Different diseases require a
  different intervention. Upper respiratory
  diseases such as common cold may require larger
  particle size while lower respiratory diseases
  as COPD require smaller particle size. For
  example, compressor nebulizer offers a range of
  particle size while mesh nebulizer offers
  consistent particle size.
• Meanwhile, the patients suffering from multiple
  respiratory diseases, a nebulizer that delivers
  different, adjustable particle sizes will be a
  convenient solution. Ask your healthcare provider
  for a suitable nebulizer recommendation that
  delivers the right particle size for your
  underlying condition.
• Age, physical cognitive ability of patients
• Elderly and infants may have special needs.
• Cognitive decline in elderly means that more
  complex manoeuvres with handheld devices will be
  challenging. Similar situations arise in those
  with arthritis, failing eyesight, reduced
  inspiratory flow and complex treatment regimens.
• For those with limited abilities to adopt complex
  inhalation technique, it might be better to
  choose a simple compressor nebulizer.
• Your healthcare providers should be made aware of
  emerging problems, including dexterity or
  cognitive decline.
• If you're getting one for your child, mesh
  nebulizers with low noise and gentler mist are
  usually more suitable. You may look for a
  versatile model with optional, child-friendly
  accessories.

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• Omronhealthcare-ap.com/healthblog/en
• Your healthcare provider will recommend a
  nebulizer that is most efficient for your use.
  Know that certain medications work best with
  specific types of nebulizers, and some
  medications (such as medications that are more
  viscous) have limitations for which nebulizers
  they can be used with.
• Also, keep in mind that the therapy is only
  effective if the device is operated correctly.
  Make sure your ability to use the nebulizer is
  assessed by a competent healthcare professional.
  If you are unable to use the device properly,
  discuss with your healthcare provider for an
  alternative.
• If your child is using the nebulizer, ensure that
  your health care provider periodically reviews to
  ensure the most appropriate aerosol device is
  being used as your child grows.
• Portability
• It is important to opt for a device that is easy
  to use according to your lifestyle. If you are
  constantly on the go, consider purchasing mesh
  nebulizer and the necessary accessories like
  power supplies to carry with you. On the other
  hand, stationary compressor nebulizers may suit
  as a good aid for usage by children or elderly
  or if you are more homebound. Some people prefer
  to purchase both types of nebulizers. If you're
  unsure of which type to purchase, it might be
  best to go with mesh nebulizer for greater
  convenience.
• Surrounding factor
• When and where the aerosol therapy is required
  can also impact device selection. Therapy that is
  given routinely, once or twice a day does not
  need to be as portable as medication administered
  more frequently or rescue medications that may
  be required at any time.
• In environments where you are in close proximity
  to other people, you may prefer a device with the
  least noise and least treatment time. You should
  also choose devices that limit or filter exhaled
  aerosol to avoid secondhand exposure to
  aerosols.
• Multiple drugs
• Many patients are prescribed more than one
  inhaled drug. To avoid confusion as to how to use
  each device for each medication, ask your
  healthcare provider to suggest a nebulizer that
  suits all of your medication. Using the same
  device or decreasing the number of different
  devices will make you adhere more to therapy
  while minimizing the confusion caused.

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Omronhealthcare-ap.com/healthblog/en Although
nebulizers allow multiple separate drugs to be
inhaled at the same time, do not combine
medication unless they are verified not to
negatively interact with each other. 7.
Durability Ensure that the nebulizer you choose
is durable and can withstand daily cleaning
procedures. Nebulizers last longer when properly
cared for which also involves checking the air
filter frequently and changing it when necessary.