Absolutely everyone experiences colds sooner or later. Some people manage to cope with unpleasant symptoms in a few days, while others suffer from nasal congestion and an unpleasant cough for several weeks. The earlier therapy is started, the less chance there is for complications to develop. Inhaler - convenient device, which will allow you to get rid of the signs of a cold in a matter of days. You can buy it today in almost any pharmacy. How to use the inhaler? Even a child can handle the device after studying the instructions.
Steam inhalers
This device is analogous to a container of boiling water. Many people remember from childhood unpleasant procedure. I had to bend over a pot of just boiled water, cover myself with a thick blanket and breathe in the steam for 10-15 minutes. This therapy really showed high effectiveness. However, the procedure could not be called safe. There was always a chance of getting burned. Children under 5 years of age were not given such inhalations.
The ideal solution is a modern steam inhaler for a runny nose or cough. This is a completely safe device. Steam easily penetrates the lungs, bronchi, and nasopharynx. In this case, it is impossible to get injured. Modern devices have great amount benefits. Firstly, this low level noise. Scary sounds will not frighten the child. A children's inhaler can be made in the form of a toy. In this way, the treatment process can turn into a fun game.
Ultrasonic nebulizers
Such devices can also be found quite often in pharmacies, but they are in a higher price range and therefore are less in demand. A nasal or throat inhaler may be offered. However, most often special devices intended for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases or bronchial asthma go on sale. The device has several operating modes. How to use the inhaler is described in the instructions.
Thanks to ultrasound, the medicine quickly enters the respiratory tract. A children's inhaler may have a special fan for forced steam supply. Such a device will work effectively even if the child is crying. In addition, it is completely safe, since there is no need to increase the temperature of the working environment. The cost of an ultrasonic inhaler starts from 15 thousand rubles, so the device is rarely used in everyday life.
Compressor inhalers
Such devices are familiar to many modern parents. Another name for an inhaler is a nebulizer. Devices of this type are the most common today. For just 5-6 thousand rubles you can purchase a compressor inhaler. Reviews about the device can also be heard mostly positive. Experts also consider devices of this type to be the most effective and harmless, since you can use the inhaler from the first days of life.
The advantage is that nebulizers have a large list of indications. Is it productive or nonproductive cough, runny nose, bronchial asthma, laryngitis of an infectious or viral nature. Treatment can also be carried out with high temperature The child has. To alleviate the patient's condition, regular saline solution can be used.
What is the secret of therapy?
The right medicine for the inhaler will already give a good result. But why use the device in this case? After all, the drug can simply be taken orally. The secret is in the vapors produced by the inhaler. When the medicine evaporates, it penetrates faster into the tissues and mucous membranes, and the healing process accelerates. The medicine directly affects the affected area - the mucous membrane of the throat or nose.
Many patients note that after using an inhaler for the nose or throat, relief comes much faster. If you use the device immediately after hypothermia, there is a chance to avoid a cold. Pathogenic microflora dies at an early stage.
How to use an inhaler when you have a cough or runny nose?
Any device has instructions for use. It's definitely worth studying. It is recommended to disinfect the device before use, Special attention It is worth paying attention to the mask, which will be in direct contact with the face. Hands should also be washed thoroughly. The solution for the procedure must always be prepared fresh. You should not use medicine that has been in the inhaler for several days. Any drugs intended for the inhalation procedure are pre-diluted. You can use distilled water for this, but saline solution is better. Using regular boiled water is a huge mistake. Firstly, scale will form, which will render the inhaler for a runny nose or cough unusable. Secondly, harmful impurities in the water can react with the medicine.
To carry out the procedure correctly, under no circumstances should you use syrups, medicinal herbs, or tablets that are not intended for use in a nebulizer. This will damage the device. It is necessary to purchase a special medicine for the inhaler in advance. For allergies, alkaline mineral water shows good results. However, before pouring it into the nebulizer, you need to release the gas.
After using the device, the remaining medication must be poured out, the inhaler must be disassembled, and all parts must be thoroughly dried. If you keep your inhaler clean, it can last for many years.
Features of the procedure
I managed to figure out how to turn on and start the inhaler. However, this is still not enough to carry out the procedure correctly. It is important to follow the dosage indicated in the instructions for the medicine. Even with evaporation, the medication can enter the patient’s body in excess quantities. In this case, you will have to face serious complications.
If possible, the procedure should be performed in a sitting position. If it is necessary to treat a baby, it is recommended to use the help of loved ones. One adult will hold the baby horizontally, and the other will place the inhaler mask in the desired position. If the lungs and bronchi are affected, inhalations should be made through a mouthpiece. But a baby will not be able to cope with such a task. In this case, it is permissible to use a mask.
It is more convenient to pour the medicine into the device with a regular syringe. 2-4 ml is enough (depending on the dosage prescribed by the doctor). If hormonal or antibacterial drugs, after completing the procedure, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with plain water.
Rules to follow
The medicine for the inhaler will work faster if the patient follows certain rules. The procedure is recommended to be carried out 2 hours after eating or excessive physical activity. The ideal time is a few hours after breakfast. In children, the duration of the procedure cannot exceed 5 minutes, in adults - 10 minutes. On initial stage disease, it is enough to inhale once a day. It is not recommended to perform the procedure more than three times a day to avoid the development of side effects.
When should inhalations not be performed?
Despite the healing properties of the procedure, it also has its contraindications. When is it not recommended to use your inhaler? Instructions for use may not prohibit procedures when elevated temperature bodies. However, in this case, it is important to pay attention to the well-being of the patient himself. If he feels dizzy, has low blood pressure, and the temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees, he should still refuse inhalation. You can start treatment after taking Paracetamol, Nurofen or another symptomatic remedy.
In case of some serious respiratory injuries, the device cannot be used. Therefore, if the patient suffers from severe coughing attacks, therapy should be started after consultation with a doctor. TO absolute contraindications include acute pneumonia, bullous emphysema. The instructions may also include contraindications childhood up to two years. However, many pediatricians allow the use of the inhaler at a younger age.
Medicines for an inhaler for a runny nose
Is a cold accompanied by severe swelling of the nasal mucosa? The Little Doctor inhaler will come to the rescue. To instantly alleviate the patient's condition, you can use a simple alkaline water. The soda contained in the liquid helps soften the mucous membrane and relieve swelling. Immediately after the procedure, you can breathe much easier.
The Chlorophyllipt product allows you to quickly restore your condition. This medicine is in the form of a solution that acts as an antiseptic. The drug helps destroy pathogenic microflora. It is recommended to use the medicine together with saline solution. This treatment will be especially effective for sinusitis.
For an infectious runny nose, you can also use Furacilin. This drug is also effective in killing bacteria, particularly staphylococci.
Cough treatment
Therapy should be aimed, first of all, at reducing the viscosity of sputum and removing it from the body. At the initial stage inflammatory process normal saline solution 0.9% will show good results. As in the case of a runny nose, you can use alkaline mineral waters. Borjomi is ideal. In some cases, specialists may prescribe drugs from the group of mucolytics. The drugs “Ambrobene”, “Lazolvan”, “Ambroxol” have proven themselves well. Before using a cough inhaler, you should consult your doctor.
If the cough is the result of bronchospasms, you cannot do without special therapy. The medicine Ketotifen can be used. At allergic nature For cough, Cromohexal may be prescribed.
If your throat hurts
It is first necessary to find out what causes the unpleasant symptom. For viral and bacterial infection is selected different treatment. If your body temperature does not rise, you most likely have to deal with ARVI. In this case, it will be enough to use 2-3 ml of physiological solution and 1 ml of Chlorophyllipt (can be replaced with Furacilin). Using this recipe, it will be possible to disinfect the mucous membrane and relieve pain.
For severe inflammation or swelling of the mucous membranes, hormonal or antihistamines. However, you cannot carry out such treatment on your own. As a rule, the prescription is written by an otolaryngologist.
Bronchitis
If this disease has been diagnosed, you should never self-medicate. Bronchitis may be too painful and prolonged, there is high risk development of complications. If you have a Little Doctor inhaler at home, you have a better chance of coping with the disease faster. To relieve painful coughing attacks, medications must be used in a certain sequence. Initially, bronchodilators are used. With their help, it is possible to cleanse the bronchi to improve the removal of phlegm. After 10-15 minutes, it is necessary to carry out inhalation using mucolytics. Finally, the specialist can prescribe antiviral drugs or antibiotics.
How to use steam inhaler, everyone can easily figure it out. It is important not to neglect the basic rules and carry out therapy strictly as prescribed by the doctor.
In the treatment of diseases respiratory tract one of the effective and modern methods inhalation therapy is considered. Inhalation of medications through an inhaler, or as it is also called a nebulizer, is one of the most reliable and simple methods treatment. Let's talk about the basic principles of using such devices.
When treated with help, the medicine is delivered to the respiratory tract. This particular treatment is intended for those who have a disease that affects the respiratory tract (rhinitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive disease lungs, etc.). In addition, sometimes the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract is used to introduce drugs into the human body. Surface bronchial tree is very large, and many are actively absorbed through it medications, such as insulin.
What are inhalers and how do they work?
There are many types and models of inhalers in the pharmacy chain, all of them have a similar design. Currently in medical practice There are three main types of inhalers used: steam, ultrasonic and jet. The last two are united by the term “nebulizers” from the Latin word nebula - fog, cloud. They generate not vapors, but a stream of aerosol consisting of microparticles of the inhaled solution.
The composition includes a main unit that generates a stream of air, which creates a medicinal aerosol of the required dispersion. In the main block there is a chamber in the form of a plastic glass with a volume of 5-10 ml, into which the medicinal solution is poured.
The container contains a damper with two outputs, one of which leads to the device itself, and the second is the output. A tube, mouthpiece or mask is attached to this hole, into which an aerosol of medium and low dispersion is supplied. Coarsely dispersed solutions lead to rapid breakdown of the device and a decrease in the effectiveness of treatment. Nebulizers may include special mouthpieces, children's masks, nasal attachments, sprayers, and a mouthpiece.
How to use the inhaler
Before using the inhaler for its intended purpose, you will first need to carefully study the instructions in order to avoid annoying mistakes that will lead either to equipment breakdown or to a decrease in the effectiveness of inhalation treatment. The technique of using different types of nebulizers may differ slightly, however common features There are still applications for this device.
You need to fill the inhaler container with a medicinal substance that dissolves in a sodium chloride solution in a 1:1 ratio. For one session you will need only 3-6 ml. It is very important to remember that you cannot use boiled or distilled water to dissolve the medicine, only saline solution. Also, never try to simply crush the tablet and stir it into the solution. Nebulizers only contain inhaled medicines, which are sold online in ready-made form.
Then it is closed, and a mask or mouthpiece is attached to the outlet, after which the device is turned on and a session is carried out in open valve mode for 5-20 minutes, until the solution stops being converted into an aerosol. In this mode, aerosol particles with a diameter of 2 to 10 microns are formed, but if the plugs are closed, the dispersion of the particles is reduced to 0.5-2 microns. This mode is considered economical and faster; it helps to cover the most remote areas of the bronchial tree.
Breathing during inhalation should be free and normal, because excessive inhalations can provoke coughing attacks and cause irritation of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. At the end of the session, the nebulizer turns off and is disconnected from the compressor. All components that had contact with the medicinal solution and oral cavity washed thoroughly in hot water using a disinfectant and cleaning solution. After which these parts are rinsed and dried soft cloth or even a hairdryer. By the way, even the longest inhalation procedure will not be able to use the entire medicinal solution. There is always a residual volume of 1 milliliter.
What rules must be followed when using such devices?
Inhalations will give the desired effect after just a few procedures. However, not everyone knows how to properly inhale using a nebulizer. There are a number of rules that cannot be ignored:
- You need to start inhalation 1-1.5 hours after eating and performing serious physical activity;
- During the procedure, it is not advisable to be distracted by reading, much less talking;
- clothing should not restrict the neck area, so as not to impede breathing;
- during inhalation therapy Smoking is not recommended;
- for diseases of the nasopharynx, nose or paranasal sinuses, it is recommended to carry out nasal inhalation (it is best to inhale the aerosol through the nose), using a mask or special nozzles;
- for diseases of the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs, the aerosol should be inhaled through the mouth, while breathing evenly. Taking a deep breath, you need to try to hold your breath for 2 seconds and calmly exhale through your nose;
- before inhalation, you do not need to take medications that improve sputum discharge, or rinse your mouth with antiseptics;
- After the procedure, you should rinse your mouth with boiled water cooled to room temperature. If a mask was used for inhalation, it is also necessary to rinse the face and eyes;
- Eating, drinking and talking is prohibited for 15-20 minutes after inhalation;
- Inhalations with medications should be carried out up to 3 times a day.
WITH colds Sooner or later, every person faces it, regardless of his age. To overcome unpleasant symptoms and restore health faster, the doctor prescribes therapy for the patient using an inhaler.
Thanks to this device, the medicine manages to penetrate deep into the lungs, as a result of which it is possible to achieve rapid therapeutic action on the patient's body. The effect of the procedure is noticeable almost immediately - an adult or child completely gets rid of the symptoms of the disease in a few days, and their work also returns to normal respiratory organs.
But in order to achieve a positive therapeutic effect, they must be carried out only after they have been prescribed by a doctor, as well as strictly observing the dosage of the drug.
A correctly selected remedy for the treatment of colds, which must be used by inhalation, will already give good therapeutic effect. But why then carry out inhalation procedures using a special device?
The fact is that when using a steam, ultrasonic or compression inhaler, special vapors are formed in the patient’s respiratory organs, which are obtained only with the help of special equipment.
Correct Application unit allows the medicine to penetrate faster and better into slime layer and tissues of the respiratory organs, due to which a faster and stronger therapeutic effect.
Attention! If you use the inhaler correctly, the drug will immediately begin its action after entering the respiratory system - and it will occur directly at the site of inflammation, which will also allow for an enhanced therapeutic effect on the patient’s health.
If you apply the medication using an inhaler, this will allow you to short term destroy pathogenic microorganisms accumulated in the bronchial cavity, reduce swelling, and completely eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of the disease. The main thing is to use the inhaler correctly so that it has an extremely positive effect on the patient’s health.
Indications for use and benefits
Inhalers for home use (eg b.well ) are convenient and useful inventions, thanks to which it is possible to cure health hazards faster and more effectively colds lungs.
If the patient develops infection, you can pour an antibiotic into the device, the spray of which will help to quickly destroy bacteria dangerous to health. In addition, the use of this unit facilitates general state the patient, and also relieves him of the symptoms of the ongoing disease, which is not immediately possible to achieve when taking pills.
Attention! Correct use of a nebulizer will not allow the acute form of the disease to become chronic.
This device is approved for use for the treatment and prevention of the following diseases:
- bronchitis;
- rhinitis;
- bronchial asthma;
- persistent cough;
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
- cleansing the nasopharynx of mucus and sputum particles;
- angina;
- relieving swelling and nasal congestion;
- upper respiratory tract infections;
- a sore throat;
- laryngitis;
- pharyngitis;
- tonsillitis;
- tracheitis;
- pneumonia;
- sinusitis;
- frontitis.
As you can see, a nebulizer can be used for many lung diseases. However, when carrying out treatment, the doctor prescribes different types medications and dosages that will help effectively get rid of the disease. It is prohibited to choose medications on your own and use them with an inhaler, as this can only worsen your health condition.
In what cases is the inhaler contraindicated?
It is not always possible to use drug solutions for home treatment, since not all patients are allowed to use an inhaler.
How to choose an inhaler for home use: types and differences
Contraindications for use are:
- high body temperature in an adult or child (if it is more than 37.5 degrees, it is better to refuse the procedure);
- individual intolerance to components of the drug that the patient is prohibited from inhaling;
- low blood pressure in the patient;
- allergy to the components of the medicinal product;
- before the procedure the patient felt dizzy;
- the course of pneumonia in acute form;
- bullous emphysema;
- the child’s age is less than 2 years (infants are prohibited from taking medicine using an inhaler);
- heart and vascular diseases.
In this case, the technique for treating colds should be different, since inhalations can cause serious harm to the health of the patient, regardless of his age.
Types of inhalers
The rules for using an inhaler depend on the type of device. Today, units are divided into three types, namely:
- compressor;
- steam;
- ultrasonic.
The most famous model is a compressor device, which is also called a nebulizer. Its advantage is that it can be filled with medicinal products to rinse the nose and provide a therapeutic effect in the lung cavity, while only healing medicinal decoctions can be poured into the steam unit.
Attention! Komarovsky advises using ultrasound devices for children, which are easiest to use when conducting pediatric therapy.
Steam
For patients, this type of inhaler is most familiar. According to its principle of action on the body, it resembles a container of boiling water. This device is considered safe and effective, since the steam penetrates deep into the lungs, thereby providing a quick healing effect.
During the procedure, you can use decoctions of medicinal herbs that have complex action on the patient's body.
Compressor
This type of inhaler is otherwise called a nebulizer. Most reviews about this device are positive. Doctors say that this type of device is considered the most harmless and effective, which is why patients often buy it for complex treatment.
This device must be used strictly according to the instructions and indications of a doctor. Treatment of small children is allowed - this should be done under the direct supervision of adults.
Medicines prescribed by the doctor (for example, Fluimucil or Lazolvan) must be diluted with saline before use - this is the well-known sodium chloride.
Ultrasonic
Such devices are somewhat more expensive than those previously described, since they operate absolutely silently. Depending on the attachment, you can treat a runny nose, throat or lung cavity. The ultrasonic inhaler has several operating modes, which makes the device easier to use.
Instructions for use of the device
Any device has its own instructions - you must study them before carrying out the procedure. The first thing the patient needs to do is to thoroughly disinfect the device (it is especially important to do this on a mask that will come into contact with the patient’s skin). When diluting the drug, you must wash your hands.
The solution that will be used for inhalation must be prepared immediately before the procedure - storing the diluted drug is prohibited. The dosage of the medicine and saline solution depends on the type of disease and the age of the patient (if desired, sodium chloride can be replaced with distilled water).
But use regular boiling water with the addition of propolis, oil or ethereal compositions is not possible, as this may have a negative effect on the patient’s health, instead of the expected benefit.
Attention! When conducting treatment at home rather than in a hospital, it is prohibited to use syrups, tablets and medicinal herbs that are not intended for administration into the pulmonary cavity using a nebulizer. This will cause damage to the unit and may also harm the health of the patient (especially the upper respiratory tract).
Sometimes patients are prescribed mineral or sea water, for example, Borjomi. In this case, it must be poured into a container, and then the standard inhalation procedure must be carried out.
It is important to note that it is most convenient to pour the diluted medicine into the container through a syringe.
Babies cannot control their breathing, so they are advised to choose inhalers with masks.
Preparing the inhaler for use
First of all, the device needs to be checked for functionality - to do this, you need to spray a little medicine upwards - if the device is functioning properly, you can start inhalation. After this, the unit must be rinsed with water and dried if it becomes dirty during operation.
Do not miss useful information: Is it possible to do inhalations during pregnancy for a cold?
After diluting the drug, it is poured into a container - now you can begin the procedure.
What factors does the operation of the device depend on?
The main factor for the correct operation of the device is the correct dilution of the drug. The use of syrups or solutions not intended for nebulizers is strictly prohibited. Also important role The correct placement of the inhaler plays a role - it must be turned over before the procedure.
Dosage and duration of procedures
Conduct home treatment required 2 hours after eating or serious physical activity. In children and adults, the dosage of the medicinal product is prescribed by the doctor, based on the type of disease and state of health. The average dosage of the medicine diluted with saline is 2-4 ml.
Children require inhalation for 5 minutes, adults – 10-12 minutes. If the disease occurs at the initial stage, only one procedure is required per day. Inhalations more than 3 times a day are unacceptable, as this may cause the development of side effects.
You need to breathe calmly and slowly during the procedure. When it comes to treating the lungs, inhale through an open mouth and exhale through the nose. If the patient needs to cure diseases of the nose and maxillary sinuses, you need to inhale the drug through your nose and exhale through your mouth.
Features of using ultrasonic inhalers
The principle of operation of this device is that it grinds the particles of the drug into dust, and then throws it deep into the lungs.
It is prohibited to add oil, oil extracts or decoctions of medicinal herbs to the inhaler, as the device will quickly fail, because these solutions have too large particles.
Optimal steam temperature for steam devices
The instruction on inhalations states that the optimal steam temperature is considered to be 55-65 degrees. The patient’s first feeling will be that the steam is too hot, but after 2-3 breaths the procedure will not cause discomfort.
Rules for using compressor devices
The algorithm for using these devices is similar to the use of ultrasonic inhalers, since the effect of the devices on the patient’s body is the same.
List of medicines for the inhaler
The following groups of drugs are suitable for inhalation:
- bronchodilators;
- antiseptics;
- mucolytics;
- antibiotics.
The type and dosage of the drug will be prescribed by the doctor, based on the patient’s condition. It is especially important to correctly prescribe the drug to a pregnant woman, newborns and children, since they have side effects are expressed too vividly.
Most often, patients are prescribed inhalations with the following drugs:
- Lazolvan;
- Berodual;
- Chlorhexidine;
- Chlorophyllipt;
- Pulmicort;
- Sinecode;
- Miramistin;
- Symbicort Turbuhaler.
Often these medications are prescribed in pediatrics, as they have a powerful therapeutic effect on health, quickly remove phlegm and mucus, and also destroy pathogenic microorganisms.
Types of inhalation solutions
The therapeutic effect directly depends on the type of solution. For example, today they are often carried out with garlic, pine needles, onions, and so on. The indication for a specific therapy is the type of disease in the patient, his age and the condition of the respiratory organs.
Sodas
The lung cavity can be treated with a special composition called buffer soda. It must be diluted with saline solution strictly according to the instructions.
You can also make your own remedy - take 1 small spoon of soda and dilute it in a liter of sodium chloride. After this, the procedure is carried out in a standard way. The main thing is that the powder ingredient is completely dissolved.
With saline solution
More often . It can be used to dilute any drug - the main thing is to correctly follow the ratio of the drug and sodium chloride, as described in the instructions for use.
Herbal
Herbal inhalations are carried out using a pre-made decoction from the plant that the doctor prescribes to the patient. The finished tincture must be mixed with saline solution, after which inhalation is permissible.
Features of treatment
The simultaneous prescription of several medications is possible - in this case, the patient must follow the order. First, medications with a bronchodilator effect are used, and then medications that promote the removal of sputum. The latter requires the use of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
It is permissible to use oil extracts in nebulizers, which are often prescribed by doctors for the treatment of the upper parts of the lungs. However, in this case, it is necessary to correctly observe the dosage of medications so that large particles do not cause damage to the nebulizer.
To get rid of an attack, medications must be used in a strict sequence, which the doctor will tell you about.
Cough
Therapy in in this case is aimed at liquefying sputum and removing it from the lung cavity. In addition to the medications prescribed by the doctor, he may also prescribe inhalations using mineral water with an alkaline composition.
To treat cough, doctors usually prescribe Lazolvan, Ambroxol or Ambrobene. From correct observance The treatment regimen depends on the patient's recovery time.
Laryngitis
To prevent the disease from developing into an advanced form, it is imperative to follow step-by-step treatment. To do this, the doctor will prescribe several medications that will need to be used in strict sequence. Sometimes doctors prescribe mineral water for patients, which will help alleviate the symptoms of the disease.
Pharyngitis
Therapy is carried out with the same features as the treatment of laryngitis.
Runny nose
If someone in the family suffers from a runny nose and also uses an inhaler, after each procedure it must be thoroughly washed to get rid of pathogenic microorganisms dangerous to health. In addition to medications, many reviews advise inhalation of soda, which perfectly relieves swelling and cleanses the nasal cavity.
Features of using the device
In order for the device to help normalize respiratory health, it is important to use it, paying attention to the features of using the inhaler.
For adults
It is important for an adult to remember that inhalation must be carried out with a working device, which must be shaken and turned upside down in advance. For the procedure to be successful, it is necessary to check the functioning of the inhaler in advance - if it produces an even and continuous stream, it means that after the first inhalation, a portion of the drug will penetrate into the lung cavity.
For children
Doctors advise children to buy nebulizers in the form of a mask, which are simply put on the head - in this case, the medicine will not be sprayed into the atmosphere, but will penetrate directly into the pulmonary cavity.
For pregnant and lactating women
Pregnant women must follow the correct dosage of the medication, since the well-being and condition of the fetus depends on it.
Rules for the care and maintenance of the device
After each procedure, the oxygen device must be rinsed with warm water, which will remove any remaining medication that can clog the passages, as well as get rid of pathogenic microorganisms.
After rinsing, the inhaler should dry in a natural way– only after this can it be put away in a storage box.
Review of the best inhaler models
Before buying a device, you must evaluate the rating of the best inhalers. Doctors say that the following are considered effective and convenient models:
- MED2000 Cow;
- well;
- microlife (microlife);
- omron (omron);
- fortrans;
- A&D UN-231.
Before we start understanding how to use a nebulizer (inhaler), let’s find out what they are.
Currently, 3 types of nebulizers (inhalers) are supplied to the Ukrainian market - compressor nebulizers, ultrasonic and mesh nebulizers. Compressor nebulizers have become the most popular, as they can work with absolutely all medications used in the treatment of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Namely: bronchodilators (for example - salbutamol, atrovent...), mucolytics (for example - lasolvan, fluimicil...), anti-inflammatory (for example - pulmicort, benacort...) and antibiotics (for example - fluimucil-antibiotic, tobramycin...).
Benefits of using nebulizers
How to use a nebulizer is described in detail in the instructions, there are quite a lot of videos “how to use” the inhaler today, but there are no high-quality and detailed ones, and we will try to fill this niche in the near future. However, this is not the main thing in using an inhaler. The main thing is instant delivery of the drug directly to the diseased organ. Medicine received orally or through injections begins to act within 6-24 hours, and when using an inhaler (nebulizer), the medicine is instantly delivered to the diseased organ. It is also important that when treated with active drugs using a nebulizer, they have virtually no effect on the functioning of the kidneys, stomach and pancreas.
How to use a nebulizer for upper respiratory tract diseases
Look carefully at the drawing; one thing is clear from it: the deeper we must deliver the medicinal suspension, the smaller the particles of this suspension themselves should be. You can use a nebulizer for a runny nose and throat cough - if the upper respiratory tract is affected, you can use a mask. As a rule, the kit includes 2 masks - an adult and a child.
People with small faces can safely use a children's mask by pressing it tightly around the nose. Inhale through your nose. Exhale through the mouth. In this case, the medicine practically does not enter the lungs and bronchi. And this is correct, since we are treating the nasopharynx. Do not use heated mixtures - this is harmful to thyroid gland! When children have a runny nose, it is very important to moisturize the nasal mucosa; to do this, it is enough to inhale with a simple saline solution. 1 teaspoon of salt per liter boiled water). By the way, you don’t have to put a mask on your child, but simply place a working inhaler next to the crib to humidify the air
Features of using a nebulizer for diseases of the lower respiratory tract
When treating the lower respiratory tract, completely different medications are used, which must be prescribed by a doctor.
The medicine is delivered to the bronchi and lungs using a special mouthpiece.
Inhale through your mouth - exhale through your nose!
When using a compressor inhaler it is not recommended:
- All solutions containing oils
- Suspensions and solutions containing suspended particles, incl. decoctions and infusions of herbs
- Eufillin, platifillin, diphenhydramine
- Mineral water
- There are still legends circulating among people about the use of mineral water in compressor and other nebulizers that are harmful to health.
Look at the picture:
The body has sterile and non-sterile parts. When treating the upper respiratory tract, we deal with non-sterile sections and partially with sterile ones. When treating the lower respiratory tract - only with sterile ones.
Now ask yourself - what is mineral water?
- Non-sterile solution!!!
- Does not match the acidity (pH) of mucus
- Normal operation ciliated epithelium airways is possible only in optimal conditions: at 18-37°C and pH 7.0-7.5, as well as optimal humidity and air ionization.
- Does not correspond to osmolarity (concentration of all dissolved particles) of mucus (0.9 g/l)
- Non-volatile acids cannot be removed by the lungs (methasilicic acid, etc.)
Home treatment is an important part of our lives, but the principle “DO NO HARM” should be present in your mind when carrying out any procedure.
The question of how to use an inhaler is asked by many people who have encountered respiratory diseases. After all, when misuse you may not achieve results. How to use the inhaler?
Thanks to the unique operating principle, the nebulizer delivers medicinal substances in small doses into the tracheobronchial tree. Thus, the drugs are quickly absorbed and the result comes instantly. This method therapy improves the patient's condition much faster than other drug treatments.
The principle of inhalation is known to everyone. At home they are carried out the old fashioned way, using various available means. But this is not always convenient. A compact home inhaler has become a real salvation. It is quite easy to use and has no contraindications for children.
Types of nebulizers.
Today, the nebulizer is used in the treatment of chronic and acute forms diseases of the respiratory system, as well as in the treatment of laryngitis, pharyngitis, asthma, pneumonia and tuberculosis. A nebulizer is an indispensable and unique device for adults and children.
Depending on the method of converting the medicine into an aerosol, nebulizers are divided into types:
- compressor;
- ultrasonic;
- steam;
- membrane
Sometimes compressor inhalers are also called jet inhalers. The disadvantages of this type include big size and weight. The nebulizer operates on the basis of a compressor, which creates a powerful air flow, so the device is quite noisy.
To carry out inhalations with a compressor device, no additional accessories are needed. The inhalation system is very reliable and does not require frequent replacement of the nebulizer and connecting tubes.
The advantages of this type of inhaler include ease of use medicinal solutions and affordable price. Compressor inhalations can be performed on children from the moment of birth.
How to use a compressor inhaler? A fairly wide range can be added to the device chamber medicines.
It must be remembered that their temperature should be room temperature and their volume should be at least 5 liters.
IN mandatory a solvent such as sterile saline should be used. You should still consult your doctor when choosing medications.
You cannot add syrups or crushed tablets, solutions based on essential oils, Papaverine, Eufillin, Diphenhydramine, or unstrained homemade tinctures into the chamber of the compressor nebulizer.
Before you start using the compressor inhaler, you need to keep your hands dry and clean. Using a pipette or sterile syringe, measure required dose medications and add them to a special chamber of the device. Then a compressor tube and mouthpiece are connected to the nebulizer. The mask is put on the face and the device’s power button is pressed.
How to do inhalation correctly? It is best to carry out the procedure in a sitting position. The back should be straight. The inhaler must be kept strictly within vertical position. You need to breathe through your mouth and exhale through your nose. Breathing should be deep and even. After inhaling, it is recommended to hold the exhalation for a few seconds.
After inhalation, the mask or mouthpiece and tube should be rinsed in hot water to ensure that no bacteria remain on them. 
Scheme of operation of a compression nebulizer.
A compressor apparatus converts the medicine into a cloud, and under the influence of pressure the aerosol settles in the respiratory tract.
The medicinal aerosol, whose particles are 10 microns in size, penetrates the nasopharynx. Particles from 5 to 10 microns are deposited in the larynx and trachea, with a size of 2-5 microns - they settle in the lower respiratory tract.
The higher the air speed, the faster the aerosol is sprayed. As a result, the nebulizer can be activated independently by inhalation or a special valve.
Ultrasonic inhalation device
Compared to the compressor type, the ultrasonic inhaler is quite compact and almost silent. The medicinal solution is converted into an aerosol under the influence of ultrasound. The disadvantages of this type of device include the limited use of medications, such as antibacterial and hormonal agents ultrasound neutralizes.
Diagram of an ultrasonic nebulizer.
If a compressor inhaler can scare a baby with noise, then an ultrasonic nebulizer is more beneficial in this case. Inhalers today are made in the form of various toys, for example, cars or trains, thereby attracting children.
Such a device can work without interruption for 30 minutes. The ultrasonic inhaler has no contraindications for use in children with allergies.
How to use an ultrasonic nebulizer? Among medications, it is not recommended to use antiseptics, interferon and antibiotics. Before carrying out the procedure, all components must be washed and your hands must be thoroughly cleaned. Then pour into the container demineralized water or special gel. Then the medicine is added to a special compartment and tubes and accessories are connected.
The rules during ultrasonic inhalation are similar to compressor inhalation. Upon completion of the procedure, drain the water and dry the container. Remaining gel can be removed with a cloth or napkin. During inhalation, the mask must fit tightly to the face. Therefore, it is not recommended to use adult masks for children.
Ultrasound devices can quickly cure colds or coughs in a child. For a dry cough, inhalations should be based on medications such as Berotec, Atroven and Berodual, they will help soften sore throat. At wet cough it is better to use Lazolvan or Fluimucil, which promote sputum separation.
Steam nebulizers
The easiest inhaler to use is the steam one. The principle of its operation is the evaporation of the drug.
The main disadvantage of the device is that under the influence of high temperatures, medications lose their beneficial substances.
Despite the ease of use, doctors still do not recommend using this type of nebulizer for children, since hot air can deliver discomfort to kid.
The device has a heat-moisture effect. Therefore, doctors recommend its use for diseases of the upper respiratory tract.
How to use a nebulizer? Carrying out steam inhalation does not cause any particular difficulties. Medicine or herbal decoction is poured into a special compartment of the device. Then water is added with essential oil. When water boils, steam is produced. This is what you need to inhale. Inhalation is carried out for 10-15 minutes. After the procedure, the device should be thoroughly washed and put away until the next time.
When performing steam inhalation, precautions should be taken.
The device is very hot, so to avoid spilling the hot solution, the nebulizer must be positioned strictly vertically.
If you feel dizzy during inhalation, you can take a short break. Do not allow children to carry out manipulations on their own.
Heat inhalers are contraindicated for use if you have a high fever, heart disease, or bleeding tendency.
Steam nebulizers are also used in for cosmetic purposes, as they effectively cleanse pores and rejuvenate the skin from the inside.
Membrane devices
This type of inhaler is currently in great demand. It is also called a mesh nebulizer or MES device. The inhaler converts the medicinal solution into an aerosol thanks to a vibrating membrane or plate, which consists of small holes. When the medicine passes through them, the droplets turn into a cloud of microscopic particles.
Membrane inhaler device.
The main advantage of this inhaler is the small dosage of the medicine, which significantly saves its consumption. The aerosol spray area is very high, unlike other analogues.
The process of supplying a medicinal aerosol into the respiratory tract is controlled using a button. The aerosol spray is turned off when you exhale and turns on when you inhale. Thus, the medicine is used strictly as directed.
These devices are very compact, lightweight and silent. You can take them with you on the road. The healing power of drugs is not impaired during transformation into an aerosol. This nebulizer can be used at any angle and in any position.
If you do not follow the regime and do not wash the membrane or mesh, the inhaler will soon fail.
Hormonal, antiseptic, mucolytic, immunomodulating drugs, as well as stabilizers and antibiotics are allowed to be used as medicinal solutions. After hormonal inhalation, it is recommended to rinse your mouth.
When treating diseases of the lungs or bronchi, the procedure is best performed using a mouthpiece.
MES inhalation can be performed 1-1.5 hours before meals. Before the procedure, it is not recommended to take an expectorant, smoke or exercise. It is better to do inhalation while sitting. Clothing should not restrict breathing or cause discomfort.
After inhalation, you need to disassemble the device and remove any remaining medication. All components should be thoroughly rinsed in hot water. After this, you need to wipe all parts with a soft cloth and put the device away until next use.
