Nebulizer compressors, often referred to as nebulizers, are used by people suffering from asthma, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD,) and other respiratory conditions. Nebulizer compressors turn your medication into a fine mist, so that you can breathe it in using a mask or mouthpiece connected to the nebulizer compressor. You put your prescribed liquid medication into a medication cup (also known as a nebulizer), which is between the mouthpiece or mask and the tubing that connects to the nebulizer compressor. A mist of air and medication is delivered through the mask or mouthpiece, and you simply breathe in and out with the mask on, or with the mouthpiece in or near your mouth. The misting will stop when all the medication has been used. (Note that most nebulizer kits will leave a small amount of medication unused. This is normal.) If your doctor suggests that you use a nebulizer compressor, he or she will tell you when and how often to use it.

TERMINOLOGY

Don't be confused by the terms "nebulizer" and "nebulizer compressor". Technically, a "nebulizer" is actually the cup that holds your medication, but it is very common for individuals and companies to call the nebulizer compressor machine by the simple term "nebulizer". Since we talk about both the medication cup and the compressor machine on this page, we will always refer to the machine as a nebulizer compressor, just for the sake of clarity. 

Care and Maintenance

Caring for your nebulizer kit components is very important. Once your treatment is finished, discard any left over medication. DO NOT attempt to reuse left over medications in a future treatment, and do not leave the left over medication in the nebulizer kit, as this can lead to bacterial growth. After each treatment you should rinse the nebulizer kit under running water and allow it to air dry until your next treatment. After the last treatment of the day, soak the nebulizer kit in a solution of 1 part vinegar and 3 parts water for 30 minutes and let air dry overnight.

Most nebulizer kits are disposable, and they should be changed every two to three weeks. If any part of your nebulizer kit becomes damaged, replace it immediately. This reduces the chances of infection, and prevents bacteria build-up.

OPTIONS

There are many different manufacturers of nebulizer compressors, and they all deliver medication in the same basic way. Some nebulizer compressors can only be used when they are plugged directly into an electrical outlet. Others have rechargeable batteries, and/or D/C auto adapters that can be plugged into the cigarette lighter receptacle in your vehicle, so they can be used anywhere. The nebulizer compressors that must be plugged into an electrical outlet are often less expensive than the "portable" nebulizers with rechargeable batteries or auto adapters. Again, they deliver medication in the same basic way, so choose the nebulizer compressor that best fits your lifestyle and budget.

Nebulizer kits are also available with different options. You can use a kit with a mask, or a kit with a mouthpiece. Some nebulizer compressors, like the Mabis Mist II, even come with a kit that includes a nasal piece for medication delivery. There are also specialty masks available for children. All complete nebulizer kits will come with a medication cup, tubing, a medication reservoir, and either a mouthpiece or a mask. You should always have extra nebulizer kits on hand, so you can replace them as necessary. Remember, disposable nebulizer kits should be changed every two to three weeks.

SUMMARY

In summary, finding the right nebulizer compressor is not a difficult task.  With the information in this guide, and the answers to a few basic questions about your needs and lifestyle, you will be ready to make the choice that is right for you!

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 Copyright 10/04/2005, Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.  All rights reserved.  The contents of this work shall not be used, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.