Inhalation for colds and coughs

The classic cold can be caused by viruses and bacteria and includes cough, rhinitis, hoarseness and fatigue, weakness and possibly fever. In contrast to bronchitis, the affected airways often lie above the vocal folds and include the nose, paranasal sinuses, throat and windpipe. These sections of the respiratory tract can be easily reached by the droplets of water vapor during classical inhalation without the use of nebulizers.

Inhalations are often used for colds with or without cough. In particular, to sufficiently moisten the somewhat dried out mucous membranes and to reduce swelling of the nasopharynx. Inhalation with a simple plastic steam inhaler, which can be bought for little money at the pharmacy or drugstore, is often sufficient for this purpose. Here too, pure steam therapy can achieve good results and moisten the mucous membranes sufficiently.But also additives such as anti-inflammatory herbs or essential oils are popular additions to the classical inhalation therapy. Salt is also frequently added, although this does not dissolve into the water vapour during classical inhalation and therefore cannot have any effect.

Inhalation for bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, which occurs especially in the winter months caused by viral and bacterial pathogens. It can be accompanied by hoarseness, fever, sore throat, cough and severe irritation of the mucous membranes, which makes it very unpleasant. Bronchitis usually heals within a few days to a few weeks.

With bronchitis, it is necessary for the inhaled droplets to reach the bronchial tubes. This is not possible with normal steam inhalation. An inhalation device with a nebulizer is required here.

This ensures that the droplets are broken down sufficiently so that they can penetrate further into the airways. Steam inhalers as well as ultrasonic and nozzle nebulizers are suitable for this purpose. Inhalation can have a mucolytic effect and reduce the urge to cough, but last but not least it also serves to increase the sense of well-being by inhaling the warm, moist air.