Nebulisers for Asthma

A nebuliser is a device that converts liquid medicines for asthma and other respiratory diseases into a vapour. The patient may inhale the vapour to get a quick relief. Nebulisers are very effective for individuals with chronic problems of obstructive pulmonary syndromes. People having difficulty in holding inhalers may benefit from nebuliser machines.

Device Description and Working
The set up consists of a compressor unit, tubing, a mouthpiece and a cup. The main component of a nebuliser is the compressor that sends air at high pressure through the tubing to the cup containing the medication. The pressurised air vaporises the medication. The cup is connected to the mouthpiece by another piece of tubing. The vapours pass into the mouthpiece.

You need to insert the mouthpiece inside your mouth, while inhaling the vapours. Small children and elderly people may need a mask to ensure that the vapours reach the lungs directly. You do not need to inhale deeply while taking in the vapours.

A nebuliser with a compressor unit can be noisy. Manufacturers have made available a machine that makes use of ultrasonic technology to convert the liquid medication to vapour. An ultrasonic nebuliser is silent and more convenient to use. An ultrasonic radiation producer sends ultrasonic rays into the liquid medication. The high energy of the rays vaporises the medication almost instantly.

Recommended Medication
It is crucial to use the medications prescribed by your doctor. The various types of drugs include antibiotics, relievers, preventers and painkillers. Physicians may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce bronchial tube swellings, control production of mucous and reduce inflammation of the respiratory tracts. Other popular drugs include bronchodilators for relieving the symptoms of a sudden allergic asthma attack and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to diminish the inflammation of the respiratory passageways.

Certain medications do not work with ultrasonic nebulisers. It is important to let your physician know about the type of machine you possess.

Taking Care of the Nebuliser
You must keep the air compressor or the ultrasonic ray producer in a plastic case in a place that does not have dust. After each use, take apart the units. Clean the mouthpiece and the nebuliser cup with warm water and detergent. Air dry the units before packing them up separately in clean and dry plastic bags. The tubing should not be washed. If the inside of the tubing appears damp, dry it before storing in a plastic bag. It is important replace the mouthpiece and the tubing every three months. You should replace them earlier if cracks appear on them. Change the air filter of the compressor if it tarnishes.

It is important to have your compressor or ultrasonic producer unit serviced every year for good maintenance.

Tips for Buying a Nebuliser
Since a wide assortment of these machines are available in the market, it important to deliberate on their features to select a type suitable for your purposes. You may look at the following aspects.

Power Supply Requirements – If you require a nebuliser during car travels, it is advisable to get a type that runs on car battery as well as the power supply at home. You will need a model that has a DC adapter for charging in a car.

Durability – A durable type is worth the expense if you need to use the nebuliser regularly.

Office Use – Ultrasonic nebulisers are essential if individuals require them at their work places.