There are many different treatments for asthma and other respiratory conditions, and a nebulizer is often part of a treatment plan that is part of a lifestyle change to improve your health and reduce asthma triggers. Nebulizer devices are used to help deliver liquid medication into a fine mist that is inhaled through a face mask or mouthpiece. Nebulizers are often used for asthma because it allows the medication to be delivered over a longer period of time, and it can be the simplest delivery method for young children or those with severe breathing difficulties. They are convenient when large doses of medication are necessary, which is why it is often referred to as a "breathing treatment." A nebulizer not only allows for large doses of medication, but it also can deliver more than one form of medication at once, such as medication for immediate relief and maintenance medications.
The portable nebulizers allow for more treatment options where ever you are. They are smaller and more compact. They have options for power, such as adaptors for vehicles and disposable or rechargeable batteries. There are also options for compressors that are ultrasonic or vibrating mesh.
Nebulizers are available in home models, which are larger and must be plugged into an electrical outlet in order to run, and smaller portable models that run on batteries or connected to a vehicle's electrical outlet. There is a difference in size for each type. The portable ones are a little larger than a deck of cards and the home models vary in size, but often are about the size of a home humidifier.
Having a prescription from your physician or pediatrician is needed, and then you will be able to purchase one from several different places. Where you can purchase often depends on your insurance company. You may need to purchase it from a specific medical equipment supply place, and coverage will vary.
Using a nebulizer will require supplies that may or may not be included with the nebulizer; they are all a little different. These supplies, or parts, may need to be replaced over time as well. You will need an air compressor, a nebulizer cup, a mask or mouthpiece, compressor tubing, and the liquid medication in pre-measured dose vials or with measuring devices.
For a home unit, place the nebulizer on a sturdy surface and plug it into an outlet. Then measure out the medication as directed or use the pre-measured vial and put it in the nebulizer cup. Assemble the cup and mouthpiece or mask as directed, then connect the tubing to the nebulizer compressor unit and the nebulizer cup. Then turn on the compressor and check to see it is generating a mist. Now you're ready to go. Portable units are much the same except they are held upright and steady.
A home or tabletop nebulizer is best suited for those who always have their nebulizer treatments when they are in the home. They are the most economical, reliable, and last longer.
If you or your loved one's condition needs treatment several times a day, and if they are active outside of the home, then it would be a beneficial to have both. If the person travels often, then it's best to have both types. If treatment is necessary once a day and the person is generally home, then a home model can be sufficient.
The ultrasonic is the type of compressor it uses, and the ones with an ultrasonic compressor are silent when running. The downside is they work best with thin, light medication, and not very well with thick medications. Because of this, some ultrasonic nebulizers have medication restrictions, so be sure to check before purchasing.