How to choose a Nebuliser?
What types of nebulisers are available on the market?
There are different types of nebulisers:
Compressor nebulisers - are connected by tubing to a compressed air source that causes air or oxygen to blast at high velocity through a liquid medicine to turn it into a mist which is then inhaled. Compressor nebulisers are suitable for versatile usage - in hospitals, at home, at work or even while traveling. Most compressor nebulisers are connected to the mains electricity supply (220 to 240 volts) but many models nowadays also feature rechargeable battery. They need to be recharged from the mains or from a 12 volt supply, or attached to a car cigarette lighter socket but as they contain a power supply of their own they can be used anywhere.
Ultrasonic nebulisers - use high-frequency vibrations to turn the liquid medicine into a mist. Ultrasonic technology allows also a complete treatment to be finished in less time than with compressor-style technology. Ultrasonic nebulisers are usually very quiet. However not all medications are compatible with ultrasonic therapy, as the heat generated by the vibrations may degrade certain drugs which take longer to nebulise.
You might find the table below helpful in choosing your nebuliser
Make/Model | Nebulisation Principle | Max Flow |
MMAD |
Work Pattern |
Weight |
Noise level |
Battery |
12V |
2.2 bar Compressor Nebuliser | 13 l/min |
2.44 | 1.45 kg |
56 dBA | NO |
NO |
||
2.2 bar Compressor Nebuliser | 13 l/min |
2.44 | non stop |
1.45 kg |
56 dBA | NO |
NO |
|
2.5 bar Compressor Nebuliser | 14 l/min |
2.44 | non stop |
1.65 kg |
55 dBA | NO |
NO |
|
2.5 bar Compressor Nebuliser | 16 l/min |
3.25 | non stop |
2.25 kg |
57 dBA | NO |
NO |
|
2.5 bar Compressor Nebuliser | 16 l/min |
3.25 | non stop |
2.2 kg |
57 dBA | NO |
NO |
|
Regulated 2.5 bar Compressor Nebuliser |
16 l/min |
3.25 | non stop |
2.25 kg |
57 dBA | NO |
NO |
|
2.0 bar Portable Compressor Nebuliser | 12 l/min |
3.0 | 0.46 kg |
50 dBA | NO |
YES |
||
2.0 bar Portable Compressor Nebuliser |
12 l/min |
3.0 | 30on/30off | 0.56 | 50 dBA | YES |
YES |
|
Ultrasonic Nebuliser |
N/A |
1-10 | 30on/30off | 0.22 | 40dBA | YES |
YES |
What you should know before buying a nebuliser?
Among the extremely wide range of nebulisers available on the market, the choice of a suitable one remains largely an individual matter. Before buying a nebuliser you may want to consider the following:
1. Depending on the amount of money you want to spend you may choose how advanced nebuliser machine you need. Basic nebuliser model as Nebuliser CA-MI Miko Basic will give you all necessary accessories and reliable compact compressor unit. Nebuliser CA-MI Miko will add a carry bag and additional spare filter to the basic model. Nebuliser CA-MI Eolo has a bit more powerful compressor and storage compartment for accessories. Nebuliser CA-MI Speedymed and Nebuliser CA-MI Clineb Basic are heavy duty nebulisers for continuous and frequent use. Top of the range Nebuliser CA-MI Clineb will give you output regulation, pressure gauge and powerful compressor unit that will deal with heavy duty non stop use efficiently.
2. If you are buying a nebuliser for a child and you need quietest nebulisation possible go for Ultrasonic Nebuliser CA-MI Baby which comes with battery and car charger to give you a peace of mind. The only thing to remember is that not all medications can be used with ultrasonic nebulisers so it would be a good idea to consult your GP beforehand.
3. Where you need to use your nebuliser – if you need more portable device which can be taken everywhere, you may want to have a look at Battery Nebuliser CA-MI Mobile which will work on mains or car power and AA batteries (rechargeable or standard). If you don't need battery operation as you mainly use nebuliser in the car or at home, school, work, etc. have a look at Portable Nebuliser CA-MI Lite which will give you ultra portable dimensions, will work on mains or car power and is very reasonably priced (no battery charging unit, hence low price).
4. What is your condition- depending on your condition you will need your nebulisation more or less often, your nebulisation time will vary as well. Before choosing your nebuliser read through technical data, look for nebuliser work cycle (non stop on all Home Nebulisers and 30/30 minutes ON/OFF cycle on all Portable Nebulisers). If you need a quick initial delivery of medicine with option to reduce delivery afterwards Nebuliser CA-MI Clineb with its unique regulated compressor output is the only choice.
There is no such thing as nebuliser for asthma or copd, nebuliser is for You so listen to your needs and choose accordingly.
If you need any help, contact us and we will do our best to guide you in the right direction.