Vaporizers are used to add moisture to the air. When they are designed to accept liquid medication, they can also relieve respiratory symptoms caused by colds, flu, pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses. Vaporizers can dispense either cool or heated water mist, depending on the type and on the user's preference.
Function
Vaporizers use water to create a mist. This mist is then dispersed through a room. When medication is added to the vaporizers, it too is spread through the room. It is not always necessary to add medication to vaporizers. Just the fact that the humidity level in a previously dry room is raised is all that is needed sometimes to bring relief.
Types
Vaporizers can dispense either cool or warm water mist. Some are able to offer both options. More recent vaporizers do not even require water. Rather, they work by heating a pad saturated with medication, which is then distributed by a fan throughout the room.
Features
All vaporizers that use water come with a holding tank, a motor for converting the water into mist, a fan for circulating the mist and a power source (usually an electric plug). Warm mist vaporizers have a heating element that heats the water. Those that allow for the addition of liquid medication have a small "cup" or depression for the medication, over which the mist circulates and distributes the medicated mist into the room.
Benefits
Vaporizers help relieve nasal and chest congestion by moistening dry air. In addition, they also loosen mucous so that dry, non-productive coughs can become more productive. Often, people who suffer from dry skin, but do not have a respiratory illness, will still operate vaporizers. The moisture helps keep the skin hydrated, and relieves itching, scaling and other dry skin symptoms.
Warning
Vaporizers should never be left within the reach of children. If the water is heated, severe burns can result from contact with both the hot water and the heated mist. The most serious problem with vaporizers is that bacteria and mold can quickly accumulate in the vaporizers. These can make a sick person worse, or can sicken a well person. For this reason, it is important that vaporizers be thoroughly cleaned at regular intervals. If they are to be used over a number of days, it is a good idea to clean them whenever water and/or medication is added. Care should be taken when plugging and unplugging vaporizers it in order to avoid electric shock. Additionally, neither the plug nor the cord should come in contact with water.
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