Drugdu.com expert's response:

The handheld nebulizer used in medical devices differs significantly from a humidifier in multiple aspects, as detailed below:

Ⅰ. Primary Functions and Purposes

Handheld nebulizer: Primarily used for treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. It atomizes medication into tiny particles, allowing patients to inhale them directly into the respiratory tract for therapeutic effect. This device typically requires use under medical guidance and in conjunction with specific medications or solutions.

Humidifier: Primarily functions to increase the humidity of indoor air, reducing discomfort caused by dryness. It generally uses purified water or filtered water and does not involve the atomization of medication. Humidifiers are widely used in homes, offices, and other settings to improve the indoor environment.

Ⅱ. Atomized Particle Size

Handheld nebulizer: Produces very small atomized particles, usually around 0.4 to 1 micrometer in size. This particle size makes the medication easier for the human body to absorb.

Humidifier: Produces relatively larger atomized particles, which are not suitable for direct inhalation into the respiratory tract. Household humidifiers generally operate at a frequency of 1.7 MHz, producing fog droplets much larger than those produced by handheld nebulizers.

III. Usage and Safety

Handheld nebulizer: Needs to be used under medical guidance to ensure proper atomization of medication and patient safety. Improper use may lead to medication waste or ineffective treatment.

Humidifier: Although relatively simple to use, attention must be paid to hygiene and humidity control. Long-term use of a humidifier without proper cleaning can lead to bacteria growth and diseases such as "humidifier lung." Therefore, it is necessary to regularly change the water, clean the humidifier, and avoid using tap water.

Ⅳ. Device Types and Prices

Handheld nebulizer: Belongs to the category of medical devices, typically has a higher price, and needs to be selected based on the specific needs of the patient.

Humidifier: More diversified, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars, suitable for different usage scenarios and needs.

In summary, handheld nebulizers used in medical devices and humidifiers differ significantly in terms of functionality, purpose, atomized particle size, usage and safety, as well as device types and prices. Therefore, they cannot be used interchangeably and should be selected based on specific needs and usage scenarios.