A new breed of nebulizer

Chances are if you or someone in your family has asthma, you have a home nebulizer. You know, that 10-pound machine with the long tube that rattles and shakes and blows “steam.” Running it puts your noise threshold to the test because the television has got to be full blast to still hear anything.

Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating. The one we have is 10 years old, but it still works for those few times Matt needs it and boy am I glad it’s there. And, yes, we’ve lugged it on vacation when he was little and I almost got a second monster to keep at school for emergencies.

Whatever the reason, when a pocket inhaler won’t suffice, you need to rely on the old standby: the nebulizer. Nebulizers blow compressed air over liquid medication to create a fine mist that can be inhaled over a long period of time—10 to 15 minutes, which is long compared to two puffs on an inhaler. The fine mist and length of time allow to be inhaled with a face mask or tubular mouthpiece.

The good news is that not only are the newer models a bit quieter, but there are also battery operated PORTABLE nebulizers. Instead of noisy compressors or propellants, the smaller ones rely on ultrasonic technology to create a breathable mist. There are several models out there with varying features and prices, but essentially they combine the necessity of a nebulizer with the convenience of a pocket inhaler.

One brand, the Aeroneb™ by Aerogen, Inc. runs on batteries, plugs in to outlets or to the cigarette lighter in your car. The no-spill design means that it even works upside down for those trips through space.

The AeroEclipse™, from the Monaghan Medical Corporation, is a disposable nebulizer good for about seven days. It is breath-activated—no batteries—and does not allow any medication to escape into their air. While it may be great for short vacation, it may not be the best choice for young children.

And the list goes on.

Along with convenience, these light weight nebulizers carry a hefty price tag. Prices start around $200 for basic models, not including accessories and such. Definitely shop around and check out some of the Web sites in my list of Product Links. Talk with your respiratory specialists and see if they have any favorites or know of any short falls.

Most importantly, discuss the need and use of a nebulizer, portable or otherwise, with your doctor.

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