Article Banner - Mother supports her daughter in using the IH 24 Kids inhaler
 

Correct Inhalation – Inhalation for the Relief of Respiratory Diseases

According to WHO, around 262 million people worldwide suffer from asthma. This makes the disease one of the most common chronic diseases.*1 Inhalation is a natural and proven method for relieving respiratory complaints and respiratory diseases. The correct application is crucial for an effective inhalation therapy. Here, you will learn what you should pay attention to.

What are the areas of application for inhalation?

The inhaler can be used for diseases of the upper and/or lower respiratory tract.

Allergic reactions, caused by house dust mites, animal hair or pollen can cause discomfort in both the upper and lower respiratory system.

Examples of upper respiratory system diseases include:

  • Inflammation of the nasal mucosa,
  • Allergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa,
  • Sinusitis,
  • Inflammation of the throat mucosa,
  • Laryngitis.

Examples of lower respiratory system diseases include:

  • Bronchial asthma,
  • Bronchitis,
  • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease),
  • Bronchiectasis,
  • Acute tracheobronchitis,
  • Cystic fibrosis (congenital metabolic disease, accumulation of viscous secretions in the lungs),
  • Pneumonia.

How does inhalation therapy work?

Our respiratory tracts are exposed to many different stimuli, whether through environmental pollution, pathogens or allergens. These stimuli can lead to inflammation, mucus production and other unpleasant symptoms.

In inhalation therapy, steam particles enriched with active ingredients are inhaled, which reach the affected area in the respiratory tract directly. Inhalation can help to loosen mucus, reduce inflammation and clear the airways. Inhalation can be started preventively at an early stage of a cold or respiratory disease.

The effect of inhalation therapy depends on the added active ingredient of the solution to be nebulised, the nebulisation rate and the particle size.

Active Ingredient

The correct inhalation agent depends on individual needs. In the case of a mild cold, it can be helpful to inhale a saline solution, which is freely available in the pharmacy. This solution can also be useful for daily use for moistening the respiratory tract. For more severe complaints, it is advisable to consult a doctor who can give a sound recommendation for a suitable inhaler and active ingredient. Whether for the relief of cold symptoms or for general respiratory support - there is a suitable solution for every need.

Nebulisation Rate

The nebulisation rate is measured in ml/ min and describes the amount of inhalant exiting the device per unit of time. The higher the nebulisation rate, the shorter the necessary inhalation time, as active ingredients are expelled in larger quantities. Particularly in the case of children or chronically ill persons, a short and effective inhalation is particularly important.

Particle Size

The particle size determines the lung penetration of the nebulised active ingredient. Thus, larger particles over 10 µm only reach the upper respiratory tract, i.e. the mouth, throat and nasal cavity. Particles between 5 and 10 µm can reach the area between the trachea and bronchioles. Smaller particles from 2 to 4 µm penetrate into the deeper lung areas, such as the alveoli.

Man sitting at the table and using the Beurer IH 55 inhaler

How do you correctly inhale with an inhaler?

For the most effective and efficient inhalation, you should consider the following points:

  • Sitting Position

    Choose a seating option that allows you to comfortably remain with an upright upper body for a longer period of time. The upright sitting position offers the best conditions for the inhalant to penetrate deeply into your respiratory tract.
  • Breathing Technique

    The correct breathing technique is important for the most extensive distribution of particles in the respiratory tract. In order for the active ingredients to reach the respiratory tract and lungs, you must inhale slowly and deeply, hold your breath briefly (5 to 10 seconds) and exhale.
  • Mouthpiece or Mask

    For the most effective nebulisation, we recommend using the mouthpiece as there is less chance of the breathable particles escaping. Inhalation via a mask is only recommended if the use of a mouthpiece is not possible (e.g. in children who are not yet able to inhale medication via a mouthpiece).
  • Frequency and Duration

    With regard to duration and frequency, you should always follow the instructions of your doctor. The duration of inhalation depends on various factors such as the performance of the inhaler and the dosage of medication to be inhaled. The smaller the particle size at the same performance of the inhaler, the longer the inhalation lasts. Therefore, the efficiency of the inhaler plays a crucial role. The more efficient the inhaler, the more active ingredient reaches the respiratory tract in a certain time and the shorter the application time.
  • Cleaning

    For hygienic use, you should clean the nebuliser and accessories after each treatment. Use hot, non-boiling water for this and thoroughly dry the parts afterwards with a soft cloth. Make sure the parts are sufficiently dry to avoid increased germ growth. Follow the specific steps in the your instruction manual.

When should I avoid inhalation?

  • In the case of inflammatory skin diseases that come into direct contact with the inhalant and in the case of eye diseases, you should research possible effects before using an inhaler.
  • In the case of circulatory problems or low blood pressure, inhalation may not be beneficial. In case of doubt, it is advisable to seek advice from a doctor.
  • The device must not be used on people who are being ventilated and/or are unconscious.
  • Children under 12, as well as people with reduced physical, sensory (e.g. insensitivity to pain) or mental abilities must be supervised when using an inhaler.

What inhalation methods are there?

There are 2 distinguishable methods of inhalation: Steam inhalation or steam nebulisation and inhalation with inhalers.

The general difference between both technologies lies in the accessibility of lung-penetrating smallest active ingredient particles that are generated during application.

Woman inhales vapour over bowl with a towel over her head

Steam Inhalation

The classic variant is steam inhalation over a bowl of hot water. Here, essential oils such as eucalyptus or chamomile can be used to enhance the healing effect. The rising vapours are inhaled through the mouth and nose, thus acting in the upper respiratory tract.

Inhalation with Inhalers

In comparison to steam nebulisation, modern inhalers produce a consistently high number of smallest active ingredient particles during operation, which can penetrate particularly deep into the respiratory tract and thus act effectively. They reach both the upper and lower respiratory tract.

Illustration of the difference between vapour inhalation and inhalation with an inhaler

What advantages does inhalation with an inhaler offer you?

Inhalation using an inhaler offers a variety of advantages for the health of the respiratory tract and general well-being:

  • The active ingredient particles act directly at the site of the disease
  • The moisture content of the diseased mucous membrane is improved
  • The self-cleaning of the respiratory tract is supported
  • The defensive power of the mucous membrane is strengthened
  • Swelling, inflammation and cramps of the bronchial mucosa are alleviated and prevented
  • The bronchial secretion loosens and liquefies, thus facilitating its discharge and improving respiratory function
  • Due to the direct deposition of active ingredients during inhalation treatment, side effects are usually less than when taking tablets and liquids
  • Most patients find the inhalation treatment pleasant

What inhalation technologies are available?

Inhalation technologies are essential tools in modern respiratory therapy, as they enable targeted and efficient administration of medication. The technologies vary in their operation and application areas to meet the specific needs of users.

TipBox

Viscosity - Relationship between technology and inhalation medication

It is important to note that not all technologies and inhalers are suitable for every type of inhalation medication. The key factor here is the viscosity of the medication. This refers to the thickness of liquids and gases. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the liquid. The lower the viscosity, the thinner it is.

Compressed air technology

In compressed air nebulisers, a compressor generates compressed air (approx. 0.8 bar). The generated compressed air is conveyed via an air hose into the nebuliser. Here, the mixture of air and inhalant is atomised into fine particles through a nozzle. The inhalant is then inhaled by the patient via a mouthpiece or a mask. We recommend inhalation with a mouthpiece as it is the most effective form of therapy.

Compressed air technology products are often characterised by a high nebulisation rate, which reduces inhalation time. Another advantage is that this technology can achieve a particularly small particle size (MMAD). At the same time, these inhalers are suitable for any type of inhalation medication, regardless of its viscosity.

Micro-compressed air technology differs from classic compressed air technology in one essential aspect – products with this technology are small, lightweight and very quiet. A special motor allows the nebuliser to be built much smaller and is therefore particularly easy to handle.

Vibrating membrane technology

These devices, also known as membrane or mesh nebulisers, use a vibrating membrane with microscopic holes to nebulise the inhalant. The vibrations transport the liquid through the holes, creating a fine, even mist.

Inhalers with this technology are very quiet, require little power (can also be powered by batteries) and are ideal for travel (due to their compact size) and children.

Ultrasonic technology

In ultrasonic technology, an ultrasonic source sets water into high-frequency vibrations. These vibrations cause individual particles to detach from the inhalant. These are mixed with air via the air channel. A fan ensures that the aerosol can be inhaled via a mask or a mouthpiece. Ultrasonic nebulisers are quiet and characterised by a short inhalation time.

Discover our Beurer inhalers

Beurer offers you a comprehensive range of modern inhalers. The choice of the right inhaler for you depends on your personal needs.

The Beurer Inhaler IH 28 Pro with compressed air technology offers soothing inhalation thanks to a comprehensive nebuliser set with high-quality silicone masks and nasal douche. The integrated accessory storage compartment makes this inhaler particularly practical.

Small, lightweight and quiet, the Beurer Inhaler IH 57 with vibrating membrane technology is the ideal travel companion for treating the upper and lower respiratory tract.

Woman sits relaxed at the table and inhales with the Beurer IH 51

*1 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma#:~:text=It%20was%20estimated%20that%20more,and%20lower%2Dmiddle%20income%20countries.


Share