How to Spot a Good Nebulizer

Level UpA nebulizer is a small to medium sized, usually electricity-powered medical device. It is used to break up medical solutions/suspensions into small aerosol droplets, for direct inhalation to the lungs from its mouthpiece or mask.

Nebulizers are probably most familiar among asthmatic patients because administration of bronchodilators like salbutamol through nebulizers is very common. However, more recently, the use of nebulizers for the administration of medications for other respiratory conditions like cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even sinus infections is gaining popularity and acceptance.

A nasal nebulizer is a medical equipment that can prove to be useful for a lot of people, that is why it is no surprise that some households invest in a nebulizer. Keep in mind, however, that not all nasal nebulizers are made equal. If you are thinking of investing in one, here are some features you might want to check out to see if the nebulizer you are intending to buy is going to be worth your bucks.

PortabilityAlthough most nebulizers are driven by electricity, some of the latest models that have been released do have options for being battery operated. This is a major advantage because battery-powered means you can use your nasal nebulizer without worries for electrical supply nor the long cords. Another aspect of portability is the machine’s silent operation. The whole idea of “portability” is that you can use the gadget practically anywhere. If you can’t use it without (unnecessarily) drawing attention to yourself because of all the noise your nasal nebulizer makes, now that wouldn’t be convenient at all, right?

EfficiencyNebulizers use oxygen, compressed air or ultrasonic power in order to convert the solutions/suspensions into aerosol. For some nebulizers, it takes a few minutes before mist actually comes out of the mask or mouthpiece for the patient to inhale. And then, you might also notice that after a while, no matter how much longer the nebulizer is turned on, a certain volume of the medication is left in the chamber. A good nebulizer is one with a converting mechanism powerful enough to almost instantly convert the medication into aerosol particles to afford immediate relief for the patient. It should also minimize medication wastage and enable administration of proper dosage by leaving as little of the medication (or none at all) left unconverted in the chamber.

Effective DeliveryInhalation therapy works by allowing the medication to be directly administered to the lungs by inhalation. For this to actually work, it is necessary that the aerosol particles produced are minute enough to penetrate even the small, constricted sinus openings or narrow branches of the lower airways. If particles exceed more than say, 5 microns, chances are the medication will only be absorbed in the nasal or oral cavity, decreasing the drug’s intended effect on the sinuses or lower lungs.

One Good ChoiceThere could be a number of good nasal nebulizers out there, but certainly, SinusAero is one good choice. Its features ensure portability, efficiency and effectiveness of nebulized therapy. What’s more, you can purchase your specially compounded prescription meds as liquid solutions compatible for use with the said nasal nebulizer.