Inhalation therapy is used for treating the respiratory disorders and conditions. This is also called respiratory therapy. The goal of this therapy is to improve lung functioning and breathing for alleviating the chronic respiratory diseases, like bronchitis, asthma, emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This may also be used for treating respiratory complications which results from heart stroke and attacks. Usually, treatment is given by specialists, called inhalation therapists. These specialists work in intensive care units, surgical wards and emergency rooms. Some inhalation therapies include mechanical ventilation, nebulization therapy, continuous passage airway pressure (CPAP), incentive spirometry and oxygen therapy.
Generally, the type of inhalation therapy administered depends upon the stage and type of the respiratory disorder. Usually, oxygen therapy is given to patients in the advanced stages of COPD as decrease in oxygen levels is indicated in blood. Typically, patient is given oxygen through nasal tube or mask. Hence, in most cases, treatment may be performed at home. This is also effective in treating respiratory problems linked with cystic fibrosis, chronic congestive heart failure and other pulmonary disorders.
In cases of serious respiratory distress, often mechanical ventilation is used. A tube is introduced into patient, usually through mouth and the ventilator machine assumes normal functioning of aspiration. Usually, this is used as a short term treatment, but in certain cases, this is used as the long term treatment for chronic illness.
Often, patients who had undergone upper abdominal surgery or thoracic surgery are recommended with incentive spirometry. This therapy is meant for simulating natural sighing and yawning. This procedure teaches people to take deep, slow breaths. Spirometer is used for measuring the respiratory functions and gives feedback to the patients when their breathing function meets predetermined pace and rate.
For sleep apnea patients, CPAP therapy is the most efficient therapy as it gives constant positive airway pressure which prevents upper airway from collapsing. Usually, mask is fitted to patient and then humidified oxygen is dispensed. This makes the patient to aspire continuously.
Nebulization therapy is widely used by the asthma patients. An inhaler or nebulizer is used for administering vaporized medicine to patient which helps to open the airways. Nebulizer is most commonly used for its portable nature and enables most patients to control asthma.
