Nebulizer for sinusitis: instructions for use, medications and reviews

Action of the nebulizer

The design of the device is such that the drug penetrates not only into the nasal passage, but also into the maxillary sinuses. Thanks to drip irrigation, the active substance helps relieve the mucous membrane of suppuration. The greatest effect of inhalations is achieved with primary damage to the maxillary sinuses in combination with other procedures. The devices differ in the way they convert the medicine into an aerosol.

One of the performance indicators of a nebulizer is the ability to regulate particle size.

Nebulizer advantages:

Safety. A nebulizer converts a liquid substance into an aerosol without heating. In this condition, the risk of burns to the nasal passages is eliminated.
Preservation of the beneficial properties of the medicine. The solution is sprayed under air pressure. When evaporated in a nebulizer, drugs do not lose their medicinal qualities, which cannot be said about devices that operate under the influence of temperature.
Performance. Small particles penetrate into hard-to-reach areas of the respiratory tract, settling on the mucous membrane and relieving discomfort. In this sense, a nebulizer has a great advantage over tablets, which pass through the digestive system and only when they reach the bloodstream do they have an effect.
Read also: How is chlorhexidine bigluconate used?

The effectiveness of a nebulizer for sinusitis is expressed in the following:

easier breathing;
relief of sinus congestion;
immunomodulatory effect;
complication-inhibiting effect;
liquefaction of mucus, removal of pus;
anti-inflammatory effect;
drainage effect;
acceleration of epithelial renewal;
simplicity and ease of use.

Types of devices

The most common types of devices:

Compressor. Nebulizers are ideal for sinusitis, as they allow you to use any type of solution by spraying the active substance. The disadvantage is the relatively noisy operation of the device.
Ultrasonic. Spraying occurs under the influence of ultrasound and a special membrane in a container with a medicinal substance. Pros: reliability, no noise. Cons: ability to have a destructive effect on some substances.
Mesh nebulizers. Ultrasound creates a mesh that is adapted in such a way as not to destroy the main components of the medicine. The device combines the best qualities of compressor and ultrasonic devices.

The device should be selected based on what nebulizer inhalations were prescribed for sinusitis. At the initial stage of pathology, symptoms can be eliminated using a conventional steam inhaler.

How to use inhalations for sinusitis and sinusitis

Treatment with a nebulizer can begin in the first days of sinusitis. But this can only be done if there is no increase in temperature. But before you begin treatment in this way, you should definitely consult with a specialist, because this involves the use of medications, the dosage and type of which can only be selected by an experienced doctor based on the symptoms and the general course of the disease.

It is worth remembering that inhalations can be carried out only after the vasoconstrictor has been taken and the nasal passages have been cleared. If the ENT prescribes vasoconstrictor fluids, they are first filled into the inhaler. And only after this procedure will it be possible to do inhalations with other means. This will allow the drugs to be more evenly distributed throughout the mucous membranes and act more effectively

Inhalations for sinusitis are done for at least five minutes. But doctors advise to increase this time significantly. The duration of treatment will thus be at least ten days.

Medicines for sinusitis

All medications for inhalation for sinusitis using a nebulizer must be used with saline solution. The best means for inhalation are immunostimulants, vasoconstrictors, anti-inflammatory antibiotics, and hormonal drugs. Desensitizing agents help reduce swelling and remove pathological secretions.

The doctor will prescribe primary and secondary medications for inhalation with a nebulizer for sinusitis. You should or ask a specialist which drug the device model interacts with best. It is also recommended to study the instructions.

Solutions and medications for inhalation for sinusitis:

herbal preparations: “Eucalyptus”, “Rotokan”, “Malavit”, “Propolis”;
antiseptics: “Furacilin”, “Miramistin”, “Dioxidin”;
antibiotics: “Gentamicin”, “Bioparox”, “Tobramycin”, “Isofra”;
drugs that increase the body’s protective properties: “Interferon”, “Derinat”;
combined agents that heal the nasal mucosa: “Rinofluimucil”, “Polydex” and the like.

Recommended list of drugs and their effects:

Polidexa nasal spray contains dexamethasone (a hormonal agent) as well as antibiotics.
Isofra nasal spray (antibiotic) – a single injection into a container with 2-3 ml of saline solution. Frequency of procedures - 3 times a day; the course of treatment is a week.
Nasal aerosol "Bioparox" (antibiotic) - a similar method of use to the previous one.
“Rinofluimicil” is distinguished by vasoconstrictor and secretolytic properties, and activates the restoration of the mucous membrane.
"Tonsilong N" is characterized by antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Vasoconstrictors “Oxymetazoline”, “Naphazoline”, “Xylometazoline”: dissolve 5 drops of the drug in saline solution (2-3 ml). Inhalations for sinusitis with a nebulizer are indicated twice a day, the course of treatment is up to a week.

For allergic sinusitis, hormonal and antihistamines are indicated, especially for swelling. The doctor may recommend Dexamethasone, Cromohexal, Fluimucil. The number of procedures and dosage are also prescribed by a specialist.

Four main groups of nebulizer solutions for sinusitis:

Saline solutions. Effectively cleans the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, eliminates secretions (sodium chloride 1%).
Alkaline solutions. Medicinal mineral waters (“Essentuki”, “Narzan”). The purulent masses liquefy and the nasal sinuses are released. The waters are useful as a preventive measure.
Antibiotic solutions. "Furacilin" (0.02%), "Fluimucil", "Tobramycin", "Dioxidin" (0.5%).
Immunomodulators. Leukocyte interferon, fighting viral infections. Used to quickly restore immunity.

Inhalation for sinusitis with a nebulizer with what medicine?

Let's consider what inhalations to do for sinusitis and with what medications.

Not all drugs are suitable for inhalation administration. The most effective for the treatment of sinusitis:

Bronchodilators that increase the lumen of the respiratory tract and reduce the severity of the exudative component of inflammation (Berodual, Ventolin, Salbutamol, Berotek).

Mucokinetics and mucolytics - designed to thin thick and viscous mucus in the sinuses, as well as to accelerate its removal (Fluimucil, Lazolvan, Ambrobene, etc.).

Vasoconstrictors and antihistamines. Both groups of drugs reduce swelling of the mucous membrane, while antihistamines block the release of biologically active substances in the presence of allergic inflammation (Naphthyzin, Cromohexal).

Antibacterial agents (Fluimucil antibiotic, Gentamicin, etc.). Targeted administration of antimicrobial drugs directly into the adnexal cavities helps to quickly get rid of pathogens and speed up the recovery period.

Antiseptic solutions for inhalation are also used (Dekasan, Miramistin, Furacilin, Dioxidin, inhalation with soda).

Topical glucocorticoids (Pulmicort, Flixotide). These drugs relieve swelling and inflammation and greatly facilitate breathing.

More information about solutions for inhalation: Miramistin for inhalation with a nebulizer: instructions. Reviews

Inhalations with saline in a nebulizer for children. Dosage, reviews

Dioxidin for inhalation: for children and adults. Instructions, reviews

Anti-inflammatory herbal remedies are also used (with propolis, eucalyptus, Rotocan, calendula tincture). Steam inhalations with saline solution have some proven effectiveness.

What is not recommended to do with is systemic hormones, alkaline water (since it is not sterile) and steam, especially if the disease is purulent. Otherwise, there is a high risk of inflammation intensifying and spreading to neighboring tissues.

With Berodual

As a rule, procedures with bronchodilator are performed first, since the active substance of the medication reduces swelling and improves the patency of the nasopharynx and paranasal cavities.

Berodual is produced in special plastic nebulas, making it convenient to dose. A single dose is one drop per kilogram, but not more than 15 for children under 10 years of age and not more than 25 for older people.

The substance must be diluted with saline solution. Frequency of application – from two to four times a day.

With Fluimucil

Procedures with Fluimucil have an anti-inflammatory effect and thin the mucus in the sinuses. For dilution, use one ampoule of the drug (3 ml) and an isotonic solution in a 1:1 ratio.

A single dose for adults and children over 12 years of age is 3.0 ml; from 2 to 12 children use 1-2 ml no more than twice a day.

With antibiotic

It is recommended to select an antibacterial agent taking into account the sensitivity of the isolated microbes. What is Gentamicin, Amikacin or Linkamycin used?

Inhalations with an antibiotic are performed in an age-specific dosage and are part of auxiliary therapy; the main antibacterial agent is taken orally or injected.

With Miramistin

Procedures with Miramistin have a bactericidal effect on the inflamed mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses (antimicrobial and fungicidal).

The substance is used undiluted from 1 to 2 ml at a time, with a frequency of no more than 3 times a day. In addition, the drug can be used by pregnant women and children.

With propolis tincture

In this case, procedures with propolis tincture are performed through a steam inhaler. The substance purchased at the pharmacy should be diluted with saline in a ratio of 1 to 10, and then placed in the inhaler.

Inhalations are performed three times a day for 7-10 minutes, the total duration of treatment is 10-12 days.

Products prohibited for nebulizer use

Prohibitions for inhalation with a nebulizer for sinusitis:

Mucolytic drugs: due to penetration into the lungs, they cause the development of bronchitis.
Alternative remedies: If an antibiotic is prescribed, it should not be replaced with another without the advice of a doctor.
If the medicine is prescribed orally, it cannot be used to treat sinusitis with a nebulizer (intravenous action is provided to destroy the pathogen in the bloodstream).
Herbal decoctions: complications in the form of allergies are possible: swelling, suffocation, urticaria.
Herbal juices and oil solutions, as they can hinder the operation of the nebulizer.
Some hormonal drugs, "Papaverine", "Eufillin".

Patients will not fail to ask whether it is possible to do inhalations with a nebulizer for sinusitis using folk remedies: the device is not suitable for oil-based drugs and herbal decoctions. A regular steam inhaler is suitable for treatment with them.

Medicines and solutions for inhalation

A nebulizer is a good remedy for both adults and small children suffering from sinusitis.

All medications that can be used in a nebulizer must be diluted with saline solution. Often the ratio is 1:1.

Various drugs with unique properties are used for inhalation. The main groups are:

Antibiotics (Tobramycin, Dioxidin, Gentamicin, Fluimucil, etc.). Designed to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms, as well as reduce the inflammatory process. Such treatment with a nebulizer for sinusitis with antibacterial agents is effective in the purulent form.
Vasoconstrictors (Naphthyzin, Lazolvan, Xylometazoline, Naphazoline). Used to improve nasal breathing and easy removal of mucus that accumulates in the maxillary sinuses. Such drugs must be prescribed by a doctor, since they are dangerous due to the risk of vasospasm.
Anti-inflammatory (Tonsilgon, Rotokan, Malavit, Chlorophyllipt solution, propolis tincture, calendula). These drugs relieve inflammation and normalize the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.
Immunostimulants (Derinat, Interferon, Grippferon). Treatment of sinusitis involves these medications; such solutions are good to use at the first signs of the disease.
Hormonal (Budesonide, Dexamethasone). Preparing solutions for inhalation with these agents will perfectly help cope with swelling; they have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Combined (Tonsilong-N, Polydexa, Rinofluimicil). They exhibit complex effects, for example, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.
Alkaline (mineral water Borjomi, Narzan), salt solutions (sea, table salt). These products are able to moisturize, cleanse the mucous membrane, and help the mucus come out faster.

The choice of drug in children is prescribed individually for each patient, it depends on many factors - the degree and severity of the pathology, the age of the patient.

A nebulizer for sinusitis significantly reduces the duration of treatment, however, it cannot replace the main therapy (consumption of antibacterial agents).

Recommendations for inhalations

For nasal inhalation, you should use a specially prescribed product, which must be diluted with saline solution (1:2). You should not fill the reservoir with distilled water, as it can provoke coughing attacks. The best option is saline solution, saline solution.

When treating with a nebulizer, it is recommended to follow a few simple rules:

do not inhale at high body temperatures;
postpone the procedure for 2 hours after vigorous activity;
Do not breathe with a nebulizer if you have sinusitis immediately before or after eating;
stop smoking, in the worst case - make an hour interval for the procedure;
in cold weather, do not leave the room after inhalation;
Drugs that cause an allergic reaction are prohibited.

Before inhalation, it is necessary to clean the nasal passages (using Aqualor, Aqua Maris, Marimer, Humer, No-Sol) and drip a vasoconstrictor (Otrivin, Tizin).

For the purpose of cleansing, inhalations with a nebulizer are also used for sinusitis. Medicines - a vasoconstrictor (5 drops) with saline solution (3 ml). After this, they proceed to breathing with the main drug - an antibiotic or another prescribed by the doctor.

How the procedure works:

recommended position: sitting;
You must put a mask on your face and inhale the medicine deeply through your nose (do not breathe through your mouth);
if a cough occurs, you need to stop inhalation;
Inhalation should also be temporarily stopped in case of sudden dizziness (if the symptom recurs, be sure to inform your doctor);
The duration of the procedure is 15 minutes, until the dose of the drug is completely sprayed.

For children, the dosage is determined taking into account age; duration does not exceed 10 minutes; number of procedures - up to 5. Proper treatment will get rid of symptoms within a week.

Each device contains operating instructions. The container for the medicine is checked for integrity, and the device is assembled with clean hands. Before connecting the device to the network, the reservoir is filled with the prescribed drug, diluting it with saline and observing the indicated dose.

If the solution is stored in the refrigerator, it is heated in a water bath at room temperature, and then used. First, 2 ml (or more according to prescription) of solvent is poured into the nebulizer, then the required number of drops of the drug prescribed by the doctor is added to it.

To enhance the healing effect of inhalations, it is useful to take decoctions of mint, St. John's wort, plantain, and coltsfoot. Teas made from them will help speed up the thinning of mucus in the sinuses.

Contraindications

When applying treatment at home, many are interested in whether inhalations are done with a nebulizer for sinusitis, if there are some exacerbations of the condition.

The list of contraindications should include:

high temperature;
presence of bleeding from the nose, lungs;
purulent inflammation in the sinuses;
stroke, heart attack in the past, arrhythmia, failure, presence of other cardiac pathologies;
pneumothorax;
bullous emphysema;
allergic reactions.

When prescribing inhalations, the doctor takes into account age, the nature of the pathology, chronic diseases in the body, possible contraindications for sinusitis and regarding the nebulizer, what medicine is used in the treatment of current diseases, and their compatibility.

Steam inhalations

Wet steam inhalations will bring maximum benefits if you use natural remedies. Not every medicine retains its properties in highly heated water.

Ingredients for steam inhalation:

medicinal herbs;
essential oils;
bee products;
saline and alkaline solutions.

Contraindications for hot inhalations:

pleurisy;
acute inflammation of the pulmonary structures;
tuberculosis in acute or chronic form;
arterial hypertension (decompensation phase);
age up to 5 years.

Contraindications for steam inhalation are the same as for treatment with a nebulizer. You should also exercise special caution during pregnancy, breastfeeding, bronchial asthma, emphysema, bleeding of the lungs, and respiratory failure.

The best result is provided by a combination of different methods of therapy. Self-medication is dangerous due to the manifestation of side processes. Steam inhalations are indicated 2-3 times a day, after which you need to warm up in a blanket and not go outside, do not cool down.

Inhalations for sinusitis for children and adults

Inhaling drugs using steam is a good way to combat infectious complications. The maximum benefit comes from therapy for the maxillary sinuses at the first symptoms of the disease. This period is the most critical - the disease has not yet become chronic and can be treated with a “light” type of treatment.

Self-inhalations are carried out using decoctions of “folk” medicinal plants. Their concentrate has strong medicinal properties.

The use of inhalations is justified even in the case of childhood diseases.

Recipes for steam inhalations

Popular essential oils for inhalation, approved for adults and children: fir, mint, tea tree, sandalwood, eucalyptus, pine. Chamomile, mint, sage, eucalyptus are used as herbs.

Recipes for solutions for steam inhalation:

Propolis. Resin or pharmaceutical tincture (30 ml) is placed in hot boiled water (300 ml). There are vapors that have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.
Horseradish and garlic. They have an antibacterial effect, so inhalations will clear the sinuses of pus and mucus. Grind the root part of the horseradish and garlic, take a teaspoon of each vegetable, add hot water (500 ml).
Essential oils. A solution of eucalyptus oil (6 drops per 2 liters) will relieve inflammation and nasal congestion.
Honey. A solution of honey (1 spoon of honey per 1 liter of water) has a decongestant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect.
Herbs. Chamomile, thyme, sage, used as a decoction: pour 2 tablespoons of the mixture into two glasses of water, heat to a boil, boil for 3 minutes.

Inhaler or nebulizer?

The nebulizer is recommended for children, as it eliminates burns to the mucous membrane and fights the disease more effectively.

The child should become familiar with the device in advance so that the procedure causes him as little discomfort as possible. The whole difference in inhalation for children and adults is in the dosage (3-4 ml and 2-3, respectively).

A steam inhaler is an alternative option, but as is known, possible side effects of its use include nosebleeds, burns, increased body temperature, and increased blood pressure due to inhaled hot steam. The procedure should be carried out only with the help of healing decoctions or essential oils.

Medicines cannot withstand temperatures. If you have to choose between a nebulizer and an inhaler, the first option is more preferable. To its advantages it is worth adding the possibility of use for sinusitis and complications in the form of laryngitis or pharyngitis.

Patient reviews and advice on choosing

Simplicity of the device, ease of operation, versatility, including adjustment of the degree of spraying - these are the advantages of the device noted by reviews. The presence of certain functions must be taken into account when purchasing a device, patients advise.

The kit should contain: a mask that fits comfortably to the nasolabial triangle, a reservoir for medicine, replaceable nozzles for air purification, and spare parts. For children, reviews recommend purchasing an electronic mesh nebulizer.

It should be noted that if inhalations based on hormonal and antibacterial agents are prescribed, ultrasound devices are not suitable for these purposes. The nebulizer is not designed for essential oils and medicinal infusions: they must be used with a steam inhaler.

When purchasing a particular nebulizer model, you should consult a doctor who has information about the characteristics of drugs and diseases.

Modern medicine offers enough medications that cure in a short time and normalize the patient’s condition. According to reviews, inhalations eliminate symptoms and speed up the healing process. A properly selected remedy guarantees healing in a matter of days.