What is the difference between a nebulizer and an inhaler? We learn!

What is the difference between a nebulizer from a compressor inhaler and other types of devices? What are the features of each device? These and other questions will be answered in our article.

The function of such devices as a nebulizer and an inhaler is similar. They are used for inhalation. But it is worth saying that the nebulizer and inhaler are different. Below, the differences between these two devices for inhalation will be described. These descriptions of these devices will help parents choose the most suitable option for their child.

The nebulizer. Description

What is a nebulizer? What is different from an inhaler? Nebulizer is a device in which medicines are placed in the liquid state. Then they are converted to aerosol and sent to the respiratory tract of the child. Nebulizers are of two types, namely ultrasonic and compressor.

What is the difference between a nebulizer and an ultrasonic inhaler?

Ultrasonic nebulizers convert drugs from a liquid state into an aerosol by ultrasound. A compressor does the same with a compressor. In addition to the above-mentioned nebulizers, there are models that convert medicinal solutions using electricity. Such devices are called electron-mesh. Also there is an abbreviated name, namely MESH.

Inhalers inject into the respiratory system of the patient aerosols of different composition. They are designed to treat diseases. The effect of the inhaler is aimed at converting the drugs into a suspended form. Thus, by means of the inhaler, the agents enter the body in droplet or vapor form. There are also several types of inhalers, namely steam, compressor, ultrasonic and electron-mesh device.

Differences

As a result of the above, it is clear that one of the subtypes of the inhaler is a nebulizer. What is different from an inhaler? Differences:

1. The steam inhaler converts the liquid into steam, and the nebulizer - into droplets.
2. In order to produce steam, the medicinal liquids are heated to the desired temperature. In the nebulizer, the transformation into the drop form is carried out by means of ultrasound, a compressor or a membrane. No heating of medicines is required.
3. The steam inhaler delivers the medicinal vapor only to the upper layers of the patient's respiratory system. A nebulizer ensures the completion of the drug even in the lower parts of the respiratory system.
4. For the operation of the steam inhaler, you can use such forms of medicinal products as broths from herbs, homeopathic remedies, oils. As for the nebulizer, then you can not use broths and oils.
5. The inhaler is a good aid for such diseases as mild catarrhal diseases and SARS without any complications. The nebulizer has a deeper therapeutic effect. It is recommended for use in diseases such as acute bronchitis and asthma.
6. For the inhaler, the use of such drugs as antibiotics, mucolytics, hormones and others is unacceptable. As for the nebulizer, the delivery of these drugs in liquid form is possible in the respiratory system of the patient.

And what is the difference between a steam inhaler and a nebulizer? In the age factor. It is worth saying that the inhaler is not recommended for use for small children. This is due to the fact that steam can burn a child. A nebulizer is allowed to apply even to newborn babies.

Which device is best for home use?

We have already found out what a nebulizer is, what is different from an inhaler. And which device is better to buy for the house?

Speaking of a small child, it is better to buy a nebulizer. Since a steam inhaler can scare a baby with steam. It is worth knowing that there are nebulizers that can have a curative effect during the child's sleep.

The nebulizer. What is different from an inhaler?

The steam inhaler is suitable for older children, as well as for adults.

It is worth remembering that with such diseases as a common cold or SARS in a mild form, an ordinary steam inhaler is suitable for use. In cases of more complex pathologies, doctors recommend using a nebulizer. These diseases include bronchial asthma, as well as other respiratory diseases, which require the introduction of drugs in the lower parts of the respiratory system.

Cost of devices

Another criterion for choosing devices is their cost. The inhaler costs less than the nebulizer. The price differs by 30 or 40 percent in the smaller direction. The nebulizer is a more complicated device than an inhaler, therefore it is more expensive.

How to use the inhaler?

Before using, read the instructions for use. But, as a rule, it contains the same list of action sequences.

1. Medicinal preparations are placed in a special compartment.
2. Next, the mask is pressed against the child's face.
3. Then the device turns on and acts on the body for a quarter of an hour.

Advice

The following recommendations will help you choose the device for inhalation:

1. First of all, you need to determine the type of device. Here you can be guided by such criteria as cost, technical characteristics of the patient's needs.
2. An important point is what dosage forms are planned to be used in the device. For this, it is necessary to read his instructions.
3. Steam appliances can not be used at elevated body temperature.

It will be better if you consult with your doctor about what type of inhalation device is better to buy.