Without exception, the biggest question we get about nebulizers is how to pick the right now; specifically, what’s the difference between jet, ultrasonic and mesh. Today, we are going to walk through the difference and why one should be chosen over the other.
Jet Nebulizer
A jet nebulizer is a type of nebulizer that uses a jet of air to create aerosolable droplets from a liquid medication. Jet nebulizers are typically used for inhalation therapy to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Jet nebulizers work by compressing air and releasing small particles of liquid medication through a jet nozzle. The jet of air vaporizes the liquid medication and creates a mist or aerosolable droplets that can be inhaled. Jet nebulizers are often used for treatments that require a large amount of medication to be delivered quickly, such as during an asthma attack.
Jet nebulizers are portable and are most commonly used by adults and children over the age of five. Infants and young children may use jet nebulizers with the help of a face mask or mouthpiece attachment. Jet nebulizers typically require less time to deliver the medication than other types of nebulizers, such as ultrasonic nebulizers.
Jet nebulizers are generally considered safe and effective, and are often the most cost effective type of nebulizer to use. However, jet nebulizers can be noisy, and some people may find them uncomfortable to use. In addition, jet nebulizers require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent the build-up of medication residue.
Our BeC team tested hundreds of nebulizers and determined compressor nebulizers are the best for long term use. The particular model we sell is quiet and offers exceptionally low particle rates (~3um).
Ultrasonic Nebulizer
An ultrasonic nebulizer is a medical device used to administer medication in the form of a mist. It uses ultrasonic waves to create the mist, which is then inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask.
Ultrasonic nebulizers are often used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis. Both adults and children can use ultrasonic nebulizers, and they are generally safe and effective. Some common side effects may include coughing, wheezing, or throat irritation.
The difference between an ultrasonic nebulizer and a standard nebulizer is the way in which the medication is turned into a mist. A standard nebulizer uses compressed air to create the mist, while an ultrasonic nebulizer uses ultrasonic waves.
Ultrasonic nebulizers are typically smaller and quieter than standard nebulizers, but they don’t always work as well for some people. If you are using a nebulizer for cystic fibrosis, the particle size for ultrasonic nebulizers probably are too big for adequate medicine absorption. Additionally, if you have asthma or COPD, ultrasonic nebulizers might not deposit as much medication in your lungs as you need. Check with your doctor about which type of nebulizer is best for you.
Mesh Nebulizer
A mesh nebulizer is a type of medical device that helps deliver medication to the lungs in the form of a mist. It is often used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. The mesh nebulizer works by creating a very fine mist of medication that can be inhaled deeply into the lungs. Mesh nebulizers are often used in patients who have difficulty using traditional inhalers.
mesh nebulizers are available in both battery-operated and plug-in models. Some mesh nebulizers come with a mouthpiece, while others have a mask that covers the nose and mouth. mesh nebulizers can be used with most types of medication, including bronchodialtors and traditional perscription asthma medication like Advair and Symbicort.
If you have been prescribed a mesh nebulizer, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or respiratory therapist. Most mesh nebulizers need to be used with a compressor, which creates the pressure needed to turn the medication into a fine mist. The mesh nebulizer will come with detailed instructions on how to use.
As a warning, in recent years a battery-operated model of mesh nebulizer (as seen in the image above) has become available and often false claims are made about the product’s efficacy, particularly around particle size. Be sure to only use mesh nebulizers that come with a compressor as they are the only devices that have been proven to be effective. Make sure to only purchase a mesh nebulizer from reputable companies.