In the autumn and winter periods of the year, colds affect almost every person. But not everyone has the opportunity to fully be treated at home or spend time on sick leave. In such situations, it is recommended to use steam inhalers, which are designed to prevent colds or in the early stages of diseases in order to prevent complications.
There is a huge selection of such devices on sale, but it is not so easy to understand which one to choose at first glance. Therefore, we will consider the main purpose of steam inhalers and conduct a rating of the most popular models among buyers.
Content
A steam inhaler is a device with which medicines enter the respiratory tract of a person along with steam. The principle of its operation is as follows: medicine is placed in a special container and hot water is added. From above, the structure is closed with a lid, on the other side of which there is a facial nozzle (mask). Through it, the user inhales the beneficial substances that appear when the medicine evaporates.
Such steam devices are only suitable for the treatment of the upper organs of the respiratory system, since during evaporation the vapor particles with medicinal impurities turn out to be large and do not descend to the lower respiratory tract. Therefore, it is used for the treatment of sinusitis, rhinitis, laryngitis, as well as for diseases of the trachea and larynx.
Due to the fact that most drugs lose their beneficial properties when interacting with hot water, it is not recommended to dissolve hormonal agents containing antibiotics or mucolytics in a container.
For treatment with a steam device, mineral water, essential oils, antiseptics, herbs, or a simple saline solution are most often used.
Inhalations are usually carried out for preventive purposes or when the degree of the disease is not started.
It should be noted that steam inhalation is contraindicated for people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system, with weak immunity, with HIV and AIDS, as well as with the presence of tuberculosis. Forbidden to children under 3 years.In the severe stage of influenza or the presence of fever, treatment with a steam inhaler is not recommended, as this can lead to complications.
Many users are sure that a steam inhaler and a nebulizer are one and the same. But this opinion is considered erroneous. In fact, these are two different types of inhalers, since they not only have a different principle of operation of the device, but also have an effect on different respiratory organs.
If the steam apparatus is intended only for the treatment of the upper respiratory tract, then the nebulizer helps to heal and relieve symptoms from the middle and lower respiratory organs. That is, the spectrum of action is already much larger.
The second significant difference is the principle of operation. If in a steam inhaler the liquid passes into a vapor state, then in a nebulizer, drugs are converted into a fine aerosol. Due to this, small particles get deeper into the human respiratory system.
In addition, when using a nebulizer, the use of a larger volume of drugs is allowed. Steam is mainly used for treatment with aromatic oils and medicinal herbs, due to the fact that many medicines are not effective after treatment with high temperature. The nebulizer is designed so that the medicinal composition does not change and retains its properties.
The functionality of a nebulizer is much greater than that of a steam inhaler. Models have separate nozzles not only for adults and children, but also separate masks for the nose and mouth.
For different diseases, the particle size of the medicinal substance should also be different. Therefore, nebulizers are equipped with features such as nebulization speed, minimum and maximum particle sizes.
Since nebulizers have many characteristics, the price for them, respectively, is much higher.
If the user often suffers from diseases of the lower respiratory tract, then purchasing a nebulizer would be the right decision. But when you need to carry out prophylaxis, quickly get rid of a runny nose or sore throat, a steam inhaler can also perfectly cope with this task.
Before you buy a device for inhalation, you should familiarize yourself with the general characteristics that certain models have. After studying them, it will be much easier to make a choice.
On sale there are the simplest models, in the container of which a medicinal preparation is placed and everything is poured with hot water. After that, you can start inhalation and inhale beneficial fumes for a certain time.
More expensive models are powered by the mains and have additional features. Basically, they are equipped with two separate tanks - one for water and the other for the treatment solution.
The presence of a timer determines the time during which it is recommended to carry out inhalation. Some models have a telescopic or retractable tube that helps regulate the temperature of the inhaled vapor. Such functionality is very user-friendly.
If the buyer plans to use the device not only at home, but also take it with him, for example, on vacation, then you should pay attention to portable models: they take up little space and will not bring discomfort on the road. But in case of a cold, they will help restore health in a short period of time.
Most expensive inhalers come with a special mask, which is used to steam the face.In this case, the device is used for cosmetic procedures.
For the treatment of a child, there are also necessary goods on sale. Moreover, they are universal: adults can use them. The difference is that usually their appearance resembles a toy, or the device itself is made in a bright color. This will allow the child not to be afraid of such equipment, but to proceed with the procedure with interest. Also, it should be set to a less hot temperature regime in order to prevent a burn in the child.
In order not to purchase a fake or low-quality product, you should always first study the best manufacturers in this field. Brands that make really good products are always appreciated by users.
Consider the main manufacturers of domestic medical equipment.
Aldomed has been operating in this field since 1998. In addition to inhalers for the treatment of the respiratory system, the company produces sets with essential oils, as well as products for children. High-quality and inexpensive products won the attention and positive evaluation of users.
Trademark Dynamics is engaged in the production of not only various types of inhalers, but also breathing simulators. All products are thoroughly tested. It produces medical equipment for both home use and medical institutions.
Another Russian manufacturer producing high quality products is CS MEDICA. The brand is distinguished by the fact that it gives a guarantee on all its products. They also sell toothbrushes, humidifiers, blood pressure monitors, and baby care products.
Of foreign manufacturers, it is worth paying attention to B.Well, which began its activities in 2004 in England. Their products are of high quality, but at the same time, the price of their goods is quite affordable for the population. In addition to devices for inhalation, they produce tonometers, thermometers, scales and aspirators for children, as well as hygiene products for oral care. For such a relatively short period of work, B.Well has achieved high results in this area.
The German brand Beurer has been manufacturing medical equipment since 1919. At the beginning of its development, the main bias was made in the production of electric heated blankets, but now this brand can be purchased from scales, thermometers, blood pressure monitors, devices for determining the level of sugar and much more.
The Italian company Bremed has been producing medical products for home use since 1948. Thanks to high-quality equipment, this company occupies a leading position in the sales market. Also engaged in the production of scales for children, thermometers, sterilizers.
As for the price, it depends on the number of functions that the device has. The most common models have a cost of 100 rubles. But the cost of devices that are equipped with a timer, additional nozzles and other characteristics can reach over 4,000 rubles. Therefore, the price factor depends on the needs and financial capabilities of the user.
These are the main criteria that you should pay attention to before purchasing a device for the treatment of the respiratory tract. If we take into account all the features of inhalers and the personal wishes of the user, this will prevent some mistakes when choosing.
If the user decides to purchase a device for the prevention and treatment of colds, then you can choose them in pharmacies in your city or medical equipment stores.
But the largest selection is available in online stores. On sites that sell these devices, you can familiarize yourself with popular models, as well as read reviews from other users. Very often, their opinion has a certain influence on a future purchase - a product that has many shortcomings is not a sales leader.
If the buyer has not decided on a specific device, he can filter the selection according to the parameters he needs: by price, manufacturers, availability of additional functions, or simply by rating.
If you wish, you can study the new products - products are often updated on the sites, and, perhaps, the choice will fall on new models.
If some product has attracted the attention of the user, then you should immediately familiarize yourself with all its characteristics: the sites always contain a detailed description of all the functions that the device has.
If the future buyer has questions about the product, you can always consult with the manager. After receiving the answers, you can order the device online and wait for it within the specified time.
Let's review the most popular models of steam inhalers, which differ not only in low cost (up to 1000 rubles), but also in ease of use. These steam humidifiers are requested by users more often than other models.
For treatment with this inhaler, you just need to pour boiling water into the container, add medicinal herbs or essential oils and proceed with the procedure.
The liquid cup has a volume of 500 ml, the recommended duration of inhalation is 15 minutes. The whole device consists of three parts: a container, a lid and a mask for inhaling the resulting steam.
The material of manufacture is medical plastic, resistant to high temperatures. The cost is just over 100 rubles.
For the convenience of the user, the inhaler has separate containers for different essential oils. It is recommended to use for colds, tracheitis, laryngitis. For children, the inhalation session should not exceed 5 minutes, adults are recommended 8-10 minutes.
The complete kit includes a 300 ml bottle, a container for essential oils and a cap with a facial nozzle.
After 5 minutes, as the medicinal mixture was poured with boiling water, you can start inhalation. The price of such a device is within 400 rubles.
It can be used as a medical device for the treatment of diseases, as well as a sauna for the face - after high-quality steaming, the skin condition improves significantly.
Continuous inhalation with this device will enable the user to get rid of some diseases of the upper respiratory tract.
The volume of the container is 125 ml. Water boils 10 minutes after the start of the device. Steam is supplied continuously.
The complete set, in addition to the device, includes the presence of a measuring cup and two nozzles: for the face and aromatization.The weight of the inhaler is 550 grams, it is mains powered. The price is from 900 rubles.
Consider models that are distinguished by a high price, but at the same time their functionality is much greater than in cheap options. Let's rank the best expensive steam products and consider what features they have.
This unit can be used by both adults and young children. An interesting design in the form of an animal will interest a small user and will not let him be afraid of the device. With this device, you can get rid of nasal congestion, symptoms of colds, as well as reduce allergic manifestations.
The machine is equipped with a particle size adjustment function. In addition to the treatment mask, the set includes a mask for cosmetic procedures that will help the skin on the face look visibly fresher.
To set a comfortable air temperature, the retractable tube can be folded or extended.
The duration of therapeutic inhalation is 6-9 minutes, after which the device needs to cool down.
The solution reservoir has a volume of 80 ml, and the heater reservoir has a volume of 20 ml. Works from the mains. The weight of the entire device is 650 grams. Cost: about 3900-4000 rubles.
A portable device helps with diseases such as pharyngitis, laryngitis or rhinitis. The steam released during operation contains more than 10 microns, as a result, it has a positive effect on the respiratory system and reduces symptoms.
In order to treat children and adults, the device has two temperature regimes.
The recommended temperature for adults is 43°C. The duration of the treatment session is 7 minutes.
In addition to the mask for inhalation, the package also includes a face mask. The drug reservoir is designed for a volume of 80 ml. Works from a network. The price is just over 3000 rubles.
Bright design in the form of a cow helps little users not to be afraid of the device. Also suitable for adults. For each type of inhalation (by mouth or nose), you can set the desired adjustment of the particle size of the vapor. To obtain the effect, the duration of inhalations is only 6-9 minutes.
The temperature of the supplied steam can be adjusted using a telescopic tube. It is recommended for the treatment of acute respiratory diseases, sinusitis, bronchitis, as well as for manifestations of allergies.
The device is quiet during operation. Works from the mains.
The volume of the solution container is 80 ml. As a remedy, you can use steamed plants that have anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition to the mask for the procedure, the kit includes a large mask for steaming the face and improving the appearance of the skin, as well as a measuring cup and instructions for use. The mass of the inhaler is 650 grams. The price is from 2150 rubles.
In addition to the treatment of colds and their prevention, it can be used as a facial sauna, thanks to an additional nozzle in the set.
The range of adjustable steam temperature is from 38 to 42 degrees. The steam direction can also be adjusted on the treatment mask itself.
The atomizer tank has a volume of 80 ml, and the heater tank has a volume of 25 ml. The time of spraying medicinal substances is from 6 to 10 minutes. When the water in the heater tank runs out, the appliance will automatically turn off. The operation of the device is performed through the connection to the mains. The price of the product is 2000 rubles.
A feature of this product is the presence of a large face mask. The steam obtained from the liquid poured into the container helps to cope with the symptoms of colds, as well as significantly improve the appearance of the skin on the face.
It can be used by adults and children, the difference is only in the duration of the procedure: for a small age, the duration of inhalation is no more than 5 minutes, for adults - up to 15 minutes.
If necessary, the nozzle with a cap can be rotated for the convenience of the user. Powered by the mains, the price is within 1600 rubles.
The steam inhaler models provided are the most popular for 2022. With certain advantages and disadvantages, they are the choice of many buyers.