Breathing treatments make it possible for people dealing with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma to breathe freely. During these treatments, medications are pumped into the lungs via a nebulizer or an inhaler. Both devices are only available with a prescription, and both have their pros and cons.
This is a device that uses an air compressor to vaporize medication that is inhaled with a face mask or mouthpiece. Some nebulizers have to be plugged into an electric socket, while the more portable types are battery operated.
Generally speaking, most people use their nebulizer for five to 10 minutes. Staying still during the entire period makes the treatment more effective.
This is a hand-operated device that stores medication in a canister. The medication is released in the form of an aerosol when the inhaler is activated. Not all inhalers release medication into the mouth. There are also inhalers that discharge medication into the nose.
It takes you less than 30 seconds to use an inhaler. These devices are small enough to fit inside a purse or pocket, making them extremely easy to transport. An inhaler is fully mechanical, so it does not use any electricity or batteries.
While several respiratory conditions can be effectively managed with either a nebulizer or an inhaler, some conditions tend to react more positively to one over the other.
Asthma treatment is often broken up into two parts. During the first stage, fast-acting medication is used to alleviate flare-ups. The second stage of treatment involves medicines that prevent flare-ups from happening in the future.
Albuterol is the go-to medication prescribed for asthma patients. It is a fast-acting drug that gives the patient virtually instant relief when an asthma attack occurs. Albuterol can be delivered via an inhaler or a nebulizer.
If you have an asthma attack and do not have these devices, you can visit our urgent care center for prompt treatment.
COPD refers to a class of lung diseases that inhibit the flow of air to the lungs. The most common types of these inflammatory lung diseases include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The standard medications for COPD are corticosteroids and bronchodilators. The latter help to free up your airways, while the latter reduce inflammation. These two treatments are often combined as treatments for COPD.
Bronchodilators and corticosteroids can be administered through a nebulizer or an inhaler. There has not been enough research done to prove if one method of delivery is more effective than the other.
Other treatments a doctor might decide to use to deal with COPD include:
If you are dealing with a health condition that restricts your ability to breathe, breathing treatments can significantly improve your quality of life. Visit our urgent care clinic for more information about dealing with issues that affect the respiratory system. We can evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective breathing treatments.
Call us today at (832) 941-1894 for more information from Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Contrary to what some may believe, diabetes requires professional treatment since it is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar. With treatment, patients can manage their diabetes and reduce its impact on their lives. A primary care physician, or PCP, will guide patients through diabetes treatment, connecting them with specialists and using treatment strategies…
DOT drug testing is performed as part of the biannual DOT physical checkup for all commercial drivers. The Department of Transport is responsible for ensuring that all commercial drivers are sober. For the well-being of employees and the public, the DOT monitors drug and alcohol use with regular testing. Keep reading to find out what…
Professional breathing treatments, also known as respiratory therapy, are essential for managing various respiratory conditions. These treatments can help relieve symptoms, improve breathing, and prevent complications in individuals with chronic conditions like asthma and COPD, as well as acute respiratory infections. Understanding the different options available for breathing treatments ensures that patients receive the right…
Drug screening is integral to many industries and institutions, such as workplaces, in-patient treatment programs, and sports organizations. These screenings look for signs of prescription, legal, or illegal drugs in a urine or hair sample. If you have an upcoming drug screening, you may have questions about the process. Here is what you should know.Drug…
Contrary to what some may believe, diabetes requires professional treatment since it is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar. With treatment, patients can manage their diabetes and reduce its impact on their lives. A primary care physician, or PCP, will guide patients through diabetes treatment, connecting them with specialists and using treatment strategies…
DOT drug testing is performed as part of the biannual DOT physical checkup for all commercial drivers. The Department of Transport is responsible for ensuring that all commercial drivers are sober. For the well-being of employees and the public, the DOT monitors drug and alcohol use with regular testing. Keep reading to find out what…