How does an inhaler work - the principle of its operation

The most effective way to treat respiratory diseases, including colds, is inhalation. A wide range of applications: bronchitis, bronchopulmonary lesions, tracheid, cough - makes this device popular and indispensable. Using an inhaler will eliminate inflammation of the respiratory tract, reduce bronchial spasms, and improve the health of the entire respiratory system.

Inhalation is a fast and simple way to deliver drugs in finely dispersed form. The main advantage over using tablets is the absence of overdoses, which is especially important for the youngest patients.

The operating principle of any type of this device is the evaporation of the drug.

Important! Before making your choice from the variety of models and types of devices, consult your doctor.

Types of inhalers by type of evaporation

The device has several types. It should be noted that the inhaler has another name - nebulizer (Latin Nebula - “cloud”). This device creates an aerosol from a liquid drug and, under the influence of either ultrasonic waves or pressure, a stream of compressed air saturated with the drug.

The entire difference between the types of inhaler is based on the method of converting the drug into an aerosol. On this basis they have the following classification:

• ultrasonic;
• compressor;
• membrane, etc.

Let's look at the most effective of them.

Operating principle of a compressor inhaler

The compressor is the basis for the operation of this inhaler. It builds up pressure, which pushes the drug out in the form of an aerosol. The device consists of an electric motor and a pump, which create air pressure; the basis of its operation is a piston compressor. Output particle size is 0.5–10 microns. This size allows the medicine to penetrate into the lower and middle respiratory tract.

Benefits of using a compressor inhaler

This type is recommended for viral infections, asthma, bronchitis, acute respiratory viral infections, and problems with the vocal apparatus. In addition to the wide range of ailments that it helps fight, The compressor inhaler also has technical advantages:

• Universal. Allows you to evaporate any solutions, including antibiotics and hormones.
• The presence of a timer on many device models.
• Allows you to adjust the size of particles obtained during inhalation.
• The mixture does not heat up, thereby maintaining its properties.
• Easy to use, convenient for home and independent use.
• Economical. The device is adjusted to the intensity of evaporation, which allows you to control the consumption of the medicine.

Types of compressor nebulizers:

• Constant air flow inhaler - delivers medication continuously in both phases of the respiratory cycle.
• Evaporation is activated by inhalation. In fact, the medicine is delivered continuously, but the force of delivery increases with inhalation.
• Dosimetric inhalers.The device only delivers aerosol particles if the patient inhales.

Important! All compressor-type devices have a high noise level, which can make it difficult to use for the procedure in children.

Operating principle of an ultrasonic inhaler

The breakdown of the drug occurs when exposed to ultrasound. The mixture of drugs brought to a gaseous state is delivered to the upper and lower organs of the respiratory tract. The effect occurs through high-frequency waves, due to which the drug is destroyed to the smallest particles without destroying its complex composition.

Important! The device is not suitable for use with herbs, oils, suspensions, antibiotics, hormones.

Advantages of using an ultrasonic nebulizer:

Let's consider the advantages of using this type of device:

• It works silently, which is very important when performing the procedure on children. It can be turned into a fun game because the device does not produce scary, harsh or monotonous sounds.
• The duration of the procedure is approximately 10 – 15 minutes. During this time, the drug is guaranteed to pass through all parts of the respiratory tract.
• The mixture is homogeneous. Due to the very fine crushing of the components, the pairs are homogeneous, which is very convenient and does not cause discomfort in use.
• The device allows you to spray a large volume of liquid.

Contraindications to the use of an ultrasonic nebulizer – These are all types of purulent tonsillitis and weak nasal vessels that can cause bleeding.

Important! Before carrying out the procedure, make sure that the medicine is taken up with a sterile syringe. Wash your hands beforehand.

Recommendations! During the procedure, take a comfortable position and focus on breathing.The procedure will take 10 to 15 minutes. After inhalation, refrain from eating for 30 minutes.

When choosing a device type or model, you must first focus on your needs. An ultrasonic inhaler will be ideal for carrying out the procedure on young patients; a compressor inhaler will become an indispensable assistant in cases where hormones or antibiotics are prescribed.