What You Need to Know About Nebulizers

Although nebulizers are no longer widely used in modern medicine they are still favoured in certain circumstances. Nebulisers are essentially an out dated design that have been largely eclipsed by metered-dose and powdered inhalers in the treatment of conditions such as asthma. However although old fashioned, nebulizers are still effective and useful for treating severe respiratory conditions. Nebulizer Systems Nebulisers are used to deliver aerosol particles of medicine directly to the throat and lungs. This is a highly effective way of treating a wide number of respiratory conditions. There are number of different systems available for nebulizer devices. This includes: - Jet Nebulizers – these devices are driven by compressed gas. One of the reasons the usage of jet nebulisers has declined in recent years is they are very inefficient. Only 10% of the liquid drug can be turned into small enough aerosol particles to be effectively inhaled into the lungs. The rest of the drug can be wasted as it is exhaled or trapped in the internal apparatus of the nebuliser. - Ultrasonic Nebulizers - these devices are driven by ultrasonically vibrating piezoelectric crystals. These agitate the drug molecules so that they turn into aerosol particles. Ultrasonic nebulisers are more efficient than the jet versions and they are also a lot quieter and more compact. Facemask Apparatus One of the main advantages of nebulisers is the option of facemasks. These are useful for children, senior and mobility impaired patients that find inhalers difficult to use. Facemasks are often preferred by patients suffering from serious respiratory attacks. They can deliver the drug effectively to the lungs in emergency situations and help patients to regain control over their breathing. Facemasks are not recommended for the delivery of nebulised corticosteroids as these can cause severe irritation if they come into contact with eyes and skin. Why use Nebulizers Nebulisers can provide immediate relief for patients suffering from breathing difficulties. This can be a frightening experience and can result in serious problems if not treated quickly. Nebulizers and inhalers significantly reduce the need for patients to seek emergency medical attention for their respiratory condition. They will be able to administer their own drugs quickly and easily without any special training or assistance. Nebulisers are still commonly used for the treatment of serious conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS and bronchiectasis. Treatment with these devices will be prescribed and carefully monitored by doctors. It will depend on the type of drugs you need to take for your condition as to which type of nebuliser system you have to use. Not all drugs can be delivered through nebulizers and so in some cases you will be recommended to use metered-dose or powdered inhalers.