A Respiratory Nebulizer is a breathing machine that helps in the treatment of lung illnesses and breathing. A nebulizer is a device that administers small amounts of liquid medication. It converts the liquid into a mist that can be breathed into the lungs. This is usually used to open up the airways and help the patient breathe better. Nebulizers are often used when inhalers are ineffective. Nebulizers assists in reducing the side effects of some medications such as steroids. With the help of nebulizers, the medicine is delivered directly in to your respiratory system. 

The nebulizers are made from plastic and the shape is similar to a small cup. The cup of the nebulizer has a tube connected with it. This tube connects to compressor that transforms the liquid medicine. The nebulizer compressor is a small air pump that has the tube connected to it. This allows the pressure to travel through the tube to the nebulizer cup. In the cup the medicine is transformed into a mist.

Nebulizers are used for the treatment of:

  • COPD
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Asthma
  • Any other respiratory disease.

How Nebulizers Work

Nebulizers work by a flow of gas that is passed through a hole. It uses oxygen, ultrasonic power and compressed air to break up the solution into small aerosol droplets. This can be directly inhaled from the mouthpiece of the device.

Medications that are administered via a nebulizer includes:

  • Bronchodilators
  • Normal saline
  • Corticosteroids
  • Anticholinergic

Types of Nebulizers

There are various types of nebulizer available on the market.

Ultrasonic Nebulizers

In ultrasonic nebulizers the medicine is given through high frequency vibrations. As a result the liquid medicine is transformed into mist. It makes it easier to inhale it. The mist is inhaled through a mask as it does not condense air. Moreover, the ultrasonic nebulizers operate quietly and can be placed in any container. They are portable and battery operated. Ultrasonic nebulizers works fast in comparison to other nebulizers.

Jet Nebulizers

The jet nebulizers is the device that changes the liquid medication into a mist for inhaling. The jet nebulizers are easy to use. They deliver the medicine into the lungs of the patient directly. Such nebulizers are affordable and the plastic cup holds the medicine. Then the air passes from the tube with the help of compressor.

Furthermore, the jet nebulizers require electricity to start its operation. This makes it unsafe for carrying around and has a loud noise.

Mesh Nebulizers

In contrast to the other nebulizers, a mesh nebulizer is the fastest machine. Along with being the fastest it is the most expensive as well. This nebulizer works on battery power and functions efficiently and quietly. Mesh nebulizer produces mono-disperse aerosol particles of 4.5 to 5µm. With the help of vibrating membrane, aerosol mist is released from the medicine. This is available in portable and compact body that makes it ideal for carrying around. This does require careful handling and proper maintenance.

DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.