Monday, April 11, 2011

Portable nebulizers for adults – Analyze before buying

Nebulizers are designed to deliver medication to the lungs for those suffering from respiratory disorders. Nebulizers are used to improve the quality of life of an asthma patient. The technology is improving by the day shrinking the size of the nebulizer. These days you can get a mini nebulizer that is as small as six ounces. This has made the nebulizer models highly portable making it convenient to carry them in your purse or backpack effortlessly. Portable nebulizers are run on different power sources like AC or DC or batteries. Moreover the portable nebulizer machine comes with a handy carry case that enables the user to carry the nebulizer comfortably.

The uses of nebulizers are many, home use, clinical and hospital use and personal use. People with active lifestyle are prepared to carry their nebulizer kit wherever they go. Since people with respiratory issues have to take treatment regularly the nebulizer should be part of their day to day life. Elderly patients have to be treated with care and for them a portable nebulizer with a face mask can be apt. Since senior patients may not feel comfortable using a mouthpiece, face mask can be suggested for them. Some nebulizers come with a face mask and yet others suggest the patients to buy separately. Before buying a nebulizer it is important to consult two people, one is the doctor who treats the patient and the other is insurance company regarding claims.

A nebulizer consists of two parts, the compressor and the mouthpiece. The compressor helps in converting the liquid into aerosol for inhalation. The compressor functions on high pressure gas like oxygen to create the medication mist. These types of compressors are called jet compressors. The small droplets of mist have the effect of reaching the lungs. The mouthpiece aids in inhaling the medication. Blocked airways are opened once the medicine is inhaled. There are nebulizers that work on sound waves that are not driven by piston. These are called ultrasonic nebulizers. These are highly portable and deliver medication in a more effective manner.

One major inconvenience with ultrasonic nebulizer is that they are not standard and hence most insurance companies do not cough up the amount. But patients with cystic fibrosis are exempted as their medical benefits suggest ultrasonic nebulizer. The life of the nebulizer can be increased with proper maintenance. Remember that a small volume nebulizer can be a life saving device. For effective results use them as prescribed. Keep the nebulizer ready at all times for immediate use. Buy a machine that fits your budget. Also remember that apart from the cost, the utility of the machine should be given top priority while purchasing a machine.

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