Is DIY mist inhaler safe for clearing throat mucus?

  • Thread starter SentinelAeon
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In summary, using a DIY mist inhaler can be an effective method for clearing throat mucus, as it helps to moisten the airways and loosen mucus. However, safety concerns arise from improper use, such as potential infections if the inhaler is not cleaned properly or if contaminated substances are used. It is essential to ensure that the materials are sterile and to follow guidelines for safe usage to minimize risks. Consulting a healthcare professional before using a DIY inhaler is advisable, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.
  • #1
SentinelAeon
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I often have hard to clear mucus in my throat and its annoying since a lot of my work depends on my voice and i have to constantly cough to clear it else i lose my voice. Theres a lot of home remedies, drink more fluids, inhale steam, use saline solution. So the other day i was bent over my stove where i had boiling water with some salt in it and i was breathing it in. During this 10 minute process i had some time to think, mainly about how uncomfortable this was and how much easier it would be to have something portable with a tube so i could inhale while watching a movie.

I had 2 options - 1 was to make a small heater inside a container and breathe in the water vapor. Second was to make vapor/mist some other way. I remembered i still had my small mister from some other project - its basicaly a small piezo speaker that atomises the water.

I decided for option 2 and took a plastic bottle, put this mist maker element inside, poured some water and used a plastic tube to breathe in. To my surprise, it works so well that when i inhale it, wait 2 seconds and exhale, there is still visible "smoke/mist" coming out of my mouth as if i smoked a cigarette. The first few times it actualy stung my throat a little - and i am a cigarette smoker !

So i got a bit worried thinking about it because this is not normal water vapor - its actualy small water particles in the process of evaporating, clearly not all of it evaporates since when i exhale you can see "smoke/mist". I did a quick search online and such a device is indeed sold for people with lung problems so i guess it cant be that dangerous. But i would still like to hear your opinions on this first. As for why not just buy this device instead .. i tend to prefer DIY whenever i can. Unless i harm myself in the process of course so this is why i am here. As for materials, a clean plastic bottle, tap water, mist maker element and a plastic tube (otherwise used for electric cables, the only tube i had lying around sadly). And here is the link to a similar device i found online:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BP2F25BY/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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  • #2
SentinelAeon said:
tap water
You are too close to the line of us giving medical advice, so this thread needs to be locked now. The correct option obviously is for you to visit your family physician to ask for their advice on your symptoms and get some recommended treatments from them. They will be able to help you understand what to avoid in terms of dangers, and what to look for in terms of treatments.

This thread is now locked, but I will ask the other Mentors if they would like to add more information to try to guide you in what to discuss with your doctor. Please be well (and be smart).

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/ritual-ablution.html

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/risks-and-rewards-of-nasal-rinses-what-you-need-to-know

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news...ans-deadly-brain-infection-report/2236681002/
 
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FAQ: Is DIY mist inhaler safe for clearing throat mucus?

Is it safe to use a DIY mist inhaler for clearing throat mucus?

While DIY mist inhalers can be safe if made and used correctly, there are risks involved. It's crucial to ensure that the ingredients used are safe for inhalation and that the device is properly sterilized to prevent infections. Consulting a healthcare professional before using a DIY mist inhaler is highly recommended.

What ingredients are safe to use in a DIY mist inhaler for throat mucus?

Common safe ingredients include saline solution, distilled water, and essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint, which are known for their mucus-clearing properties. However, it's essential to use these ingredients in proper concentrations and avoid any substances that may cause allergic reactions or irritation.

Can a DIY mist inhaler help with chronic throat mucus issues?

A DIY mist inhaler may provide temporary relief for throat mucus, but it is not a cure for chronic issues. Persistent mucus problems could be a sign of underlying conditions such as allergies, infections, or other respiratory issues that require medical attention. It's best to seek advice from a healthcare provider for chronic symptoms.

How often can I use a DIY mist inhaler safely?

The frequency of use depends on the ingredients and individual health conditions. Generally, using a mist inhaler 2-3 times a day for short periods is considered safe for most people. Overuse can lead to irritation or other respiratory issues. Always follow guidelines provided by healthcare professionals.

What are the potential risks of using a DIY mist inhaler?

Potential risks include inhaling harmful substances, developing respiratory infections due to improper sterilization, and experiencing allergic reactions or irritation. There is also a risk of exacerbating underlying health conditions if the inhaler is not used correctly. Consulting a healthcare professional before use can mitigate these risks.

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