What is the difference between a nebulizer and an inhaler? Find out!

What is the difference between a nebulizer and a compressor inhaler and other types of devices? What are the features of each device? We will answer these and other questions in our article.

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

Nebulizer Description

What is a nebulizer? What is the difference from an inhaler? A nebulizer is a device in which drugs are placed in a liquid state. Then they are converted into aerosol and sent to the respiratory tract of the child. There are two types of nebulizers, namely ultrasonic and compressor.

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

Ultrasonic nebulizers convert drugs from a liquid state to an aerosol through ultrasound. And compressor ones do the same thing with a compressor. In addition to the above nebulizers, there are models that convert drug solutions using electricity. Such devices are called electronic mesh. There is also an abbreviated name, namely MESH.

Inhalers introduce aerosols of various compositions into the patient's respiratory system. They are designed to treat diseases. The action of the inhaler is aimed at converting drugs into a suspended form. Thus, by means of an inhaler, the drugs enter the body in drip or steam form. There are also several types of inhalers, namely a steam, compressor, ultrasound and electronic mesh apparatus.

Differences

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

1. A steam inhaler converts liquid into steam, and a nebulizer into drops.
2. In order to get steam, medicinal fluids are heated to the desired temperature. In a nebulizer, conversion to a droplet form is carried out by means of ultrasound, a compressor or a membrane. Heating of drugs is not required.
3. A steam inhaler delivers drug vapor only to the upper layers of the patient's respiratory system. A nebulizer ensures that the drug is brought even to the lower parts of the respiratory system.
4. For the operation of a steam inhaler, you can use such forms of therapeutic agents as decoctions of herbs, homeopathic remedies, oils. As for the nebulizer, then you can not use decoctions and oils.
5. The inhaler helps well with diseases such as mild colds 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 an 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 small children. This is due to the fact that steam can burn a child. A nebulizer is allowed to be used even by newborn babies.

Which appliance is best for home use?

We have already found out what a nebulizer is, how it differs from an inhaler. And which device is best to buy for home?

If we talk about a small child, it is better to buy a nebulizer. Since a steam inhaler can scare the baby by releasing steam. It is worth knowing that there are nebulizers that can have a therapeutic effect during a child’s sleep.

Nebulizer What is the difference from an inhaler?

Steam inhaler is suitable for older children, as well as for adults.

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

Device cost

Another criterion for choosing devices is their cost. An inhaler is cheaper than a nebulizer. The price is 30 or 40 percent lower. A nebulizer is a more complex device than an inhaler, which is why it is more expensive.

How to use an inhaler?

Before starting use, it is recommended that you read the instructions for use. But, as a rule, it contains the same list of sequences of actions.

1. Medicines are placed in a special compartment.
2. Next, the mask is pressed to the face of the child.
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 a device for inhalation:

1. First of all, you need to determine the type of device. Here you can be guided by criteria such as cost, technical characteristics of the patient's needs.
2. An important point is which dosage forms are planned to be used in the device. To do this, read its instructions.
3. Steam appliances cannot 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.