What is a nebulizer?

A nebulizer is a medical device for people with asthma, colds, sinus, or another respiratory condition that works to administer the liquid medication such as albuterol, that alleviates their symptoms directly and quickly to the lungs as a cool mist.

A nebulizer turns liquid medicine into a fine mist that a person can inhale through a face mask or mouthpiece, allowing it to go straight into the lungs and the respiratory system where it is needed.

Who needs a nebulizer?

Healthcare providers typically prescribe a nebulizer to people with one of the following lung disorders:

• asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• respiratory infections (bronchiolitis)
• cystic fibrosis
• bronchitis
• allergies

You may purchase a nebulizer machine online without a prescription, though a doctor will probably still need to prescribe the medication.

Types of nebulizer treatment

There are of 2 types of nebulizer treatment: jet nebulizer, and ultrasonic nebulizer. 

Jet nebulizers are based on the venturi principle, whereas ultrasonic nebulizers use the converse piezoelectric effect to convert alternating current to high-frequency acoustic energy. Important variables for both types of nebulizer are treatment time required, particle size produced, and aerosol drug output.

Ultrasonic nebulizers produce a more uniform particle size than jet nebulizers.

Other types of respiratory devices:

Other devices for respiratory care include inhalers,  humidifiers and vaporizers. They all work differently and serve different purposes.

- Metered dose inhalers (MDI) are the most commonly prescribed, they are handheld and portable. Nebulizers, on the other hand, are electric or battery powered machines that turn liquid medicine into a fine mist that’s inhaled into the lungs through a mouthpiece or facemask.

- Humidifiers create a breathable cool mist, not medication, that disperses throughout a room. The mist can be helpful for those with asthma, allergies or respiratory diseases. Because the mist is spread out, it can also treat dry skin.

- Vaporizers also create a breathable mist to which you can add medication. However, since it is not directly administered via the mouth or nose but instead, spread in the air, they are not a reliable form of medication delivery. As with a humidifier, the mist itself can still have health benefits. 

If you're a candidate for a nebulizer and are looking for convenient and portable options to take your relief on the go, you've to the right place.

Continue reading to find out which portable nebulizer machine is best for you.

Top 5 Portable Nebulizers for Travel and Mobility

Sunset Mesh Nebulizer with Rechargeable Battery

Let's begin with this device's small, compact size, which makes it a breeze to carry in any bag or carry-on item, making it a discrete portable option. 

This portable mesh technology nebulizer features a quiet, lightweight alternative to larger breathing treatments made for in-home use. It weighs less than 4 oz and includes a built-in rechargeable battery that can be charged through any USB port or wall outlet for reliable operation on the go.

And the best part? The battery life on a full charge can last up to 8 days before requiring another charge.

The main unit includes a medicine cup, disposable mouthpiece, disposable adult mask, disposable pediatric child mask, USB cable, carry bag, and instruction manual.

Simple to use, effective, and easy to transport. It's a great choice!

PulmoNeb LT Compressor Nebulizer with VixOne Nebulizers

The PulmoNeb® LT air compressor nebulizer is a small, easy-to-use device that gives you the freedom of an internal tubing-less design while providing superior performance.

We love it because it's one of the best and most affordable options in the market, with a small footprint and lightweight design that make it easy to store and transport.

It offers a highly intuitive operation with features like no aerosol dosage, so you can be sure it's always at its best for your needs. 

InnoSpire Mini Portable Compressor Nebulizer with Reusable SideStream Plus Nebulizers

The InnoSpire Mini Compressor Nebulizer System from Phillips Respironics is one of the best travel companions, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, and ideal for both home or travel use.

The InnoSpire Mini is a compact, lightweight, and dependable type of nebulizer that combines a quality air compressor and innovative nebulizers with intelligent portability and convenience features; proven SideStream technology provides fast and efficient aerosol drug delivery for consistent medication delivery and treatment time.

It also includes a battery pack to power the compressor for up to 90 minutes between charges allowing for additional treatments. Recharging is quick and easy taking roughly 6 hours from normal AC or DC power sources to fully charge.

Philips Respironics InnoSpire Go Portable Mesh Nebulizer Kit

Another winner in the handheld portable nebulizer category is the Philips Respironics InnoSpire Go, a handheld nebulizer designed to be user-friendly and easy on the go. 

The small, lightweight design makes it perfect for children or adults with chronic respiratory conditions who need medication and seamless.

The quiet treatment, free of wires, cords, or tubes hanging around, allows for a practical and effective aerosol inhalation therapy session at home or on the go with a built-in battery that lasts up to 30 uses with a 2 year warranty.

It uses mesh technology as an innovative solution to help patients receiving respiratory treatments. The vibrating mesh draws medicine through approximately 1000 precision-formed microscopic particle size holes, reducing treatment time by 25%.

Trek S Portable Aerosol System Standard

The PARI TREK S Portable Compressor Machine is a premier, top quality nebulizer device with compact, lightweight, quick, and effective treatment ideal for active users who want to carry their aerosol treatments with them wherever they go using a multi-voltage power supply adapter that makes international travel easy.

AC and DC power cables, Wing-Tip Tubing, two Sprint LC Reusable Nebulizers, and a Deluxe Travel Bag are included in each bundle.

As you can see, there are great options to choose from, and they all deliver efficient and effective treatment and relief for those who need a nebulizer in their life. Before purchasing, be sure to look at the factors most important for your life and consider the noise level, portability, ease of operation, size, weight, treatment time and medication volume before purchase.

If you need additional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our respiratory specialist who can guide you in your journey to better respiratory health.