Getting ready for Christmas

Talking of Christmas 

Its good to see that you are all getting ready for Christmas and stocking up on spares and accessories.
And for those of you who haven't already don't forget to blow the cobwebs of your nebuliser when you get your decorations out of the cupboard, give it a good wipe down and check the motor is running efficiently.

If you need any nebuliser help or advice you can email or telephone us on 01942 701210 or you get find independent advice or other helpful seasonal advice our useful links. 


And don't forget to stock up on your Christmas Cards from our kindred spirits. 

Christmas Fayre

Don't forget to support your favourite organisation this year and check out their latest Christmas offerings which are on sale now.

Asthma UK

British Lung Foundation

Cystic Fibrosis Trust

World COPD Day November 14th 2012

GOLD!

For those of you of a certain age like us the word GOLD written in capitals should be followed by an exclamation mark and make you want to break out into a song. In this case however it stands for something a little more serious the  Global Initiative for Chronic Lung Disease  

The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) works with health care professionals and public health officials to raise awareness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and to improve prevention and treatment of this lung disease for patients around the world.

The first World COPD Day was held in 2002. Each year organizers in more than 50 countries worldwide have carried out activities, making the day one of the world's most important COPD awareness and education events. This year November 14th will be World COPD Day with the theme “It’s Not Too Late.” a positive message chosen to emphasize the meaningful actions people can take to improve their respiratory health, at any stage before or after a COPD diagnosis.

If you want to find out how you can get involved on a more local level you can contact the British Lung Foundation or if you yourself are needing help and support why not check out just what is available locally. BLF across the UK

Update on Cystic Fibrosis Campaign

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust have received over 11,000 signatures to their e-petition regarding the cost and availability of Kalydeco for the treatment of some patients with CF.

This has now been sent with all your comments to Vertex and to the Clinical Priorities Advisory Group (CPAG, set up by the NHS to make recommendations on Kalydeco), ahead of their meeting to discuss the recommendations on the funding of Kalydeco.

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust  aim to keep the petition going until a decision on funding is made. They believe "that this transformational medicine should be made available to all those who need it as soon as possible"

You can read all latest news and read the submitted letter 

http://www.cftrust.org.uk/pressoffice/news/kalydeco_petition_sent

Getting involved

Often we are reluctant to get involved or speak out, but occasionally when something we feel passionate about comes along it can be worth while just taking a moment to state your case. The internet can make this so much easier and whatever your feelings about the internet one of the positives is that it can be so simple to get behind a campaign and the only thing that you need to exercise is your fingers.

The The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are currently asking us to sign their online petition concerning the transformational new treatment Kalydeco which can have significant clinical benefit for some Cystic Fibrosis suffers. The Cystic Fibrosis Trust are pushing for a swift resolution between the NHS and the treatment manufacturer over costing and availability so that all who would benefit from Kalydeco can receive treatment as soon as possible.

We have added our names to the petition and if you wish to find out more there is further information available here:

http://www.cftrust.org.uk/pressoffice/pressofficepo/kalydeco_updates/kalydecoqa#wiksf

Or you can sign simply sign their petition here:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/campaign-for-kalydeco

And if you want to find out more about the work of Cystic Fibrosis Trust or get in touch why not check out their website:

http://www.cftrust.org.uk

Help

If you are newly diagnosed and struggling to find information about your condition you may find our useful links can provide a little more detail. If you are struggling to negotiate the minefield that is the NHS then why not try NHS Direct NHS Choices or perhaps PALS can help.

As the weather is getting colder and the nights are drawing in, now may be the time to have a chat with our Kindred Spirits. They all have thriving on line communities. So if you just want to chat or need helpful advice they are warm, welcoming and waiting to hear from you. There you will find people just like yourself who are experiencing similar symptoms, hopes and frustrations.

You can link through this blog or on our website. Why not check out what they have to offer. We often hear feedback from you as to just how positive and supportive getting in touch can be. 

Seasonal nebuliser advice

Well doesn't time fly! Yes I'm afraid it's that time of year again.

Now is a good time for those of you who only nebulise occasionally to be dragging your unit from the cupboard, dusting it off and stocking up on spares and accessories. You can do that by clicking HERE. For those of you who have to use your nebuliser a little more often, then maybe it's time it had its annual M.O.T. You can ring us on 01942 701210 or if you prefer  to email and find out if you have one of the units that still requires an annual service or you can ring the manufacturer. There are lots of pages and clickable links throughout the blog about cleaning and caring for your nebuliser.

And what about your annual flu jab? You can find out more here just why it may be a good idea for you and if so why not book your appointment today and if you are still unsure why not chat to any one of our useful links.

Oscillating Positive Pressure Devices, or mucus clearance devices to you and me!

I have been asked to post a quick recap of the information about Oscillating Positive Pressure Devices or as known to you and me the Shaker, the Flutter and the Pari O-PEP. To see our range click HERE

For some of you mucus in your airways becomes stickier making it difficult to clear and this can lead to infection making your airways swell and produce even more mucus. This in turn results in further infection which can eventually lead to lung damage. One possible treatment of these symptoms along with mucolytics is airway clearance techniques  It is vital that these are recommended and monitored by a Physiotherapist or Respiratory Nurse as everyone is an individual and they are not suitable for everyone


When you breathe out through these devices, pressure builds up in your lungs, helping to keep the airways open wide and allowing air to get behind the sputum, moving it upwards. The vibrations transmitted through the chest wall from the device help to loosen any sputum stuck to the sides of the airways. 
Your health professional should show you how to use these devices and each unit comes with full instructions, but as a quick guide


Treatment can be carried out in sitting or any postural drainage position (where possible).
Relaxing your stomach muscles take a few normal breaths before starting.
Close your lips around the mouthpiece and make sure to make a  good seal.
Start by taking a slightly bigger than normal breath in through your nose, then breathe out through the device. You may feel vibrations on your chest wall.
Repeat this eight to ten times. You should then put the device down and cough to clear any sputum. Then relax before starting again.
Aim to continue for about 15  minutes or until you have cleared all your sputum.

Customer feedback with all these devices is always very positive especially when recommended by your heath professional and with the new Shakers and the Pari O-PEP even the cost is less prohibitive. If you have any questions at all please call us on 01942 701210 and you can explore further through the clickable links in this blog, our kindred spirits or for our website click HERE

The Sidestream Plus is now available

Slightly earlier than anticipated the Sidestream Plus from Philips Respironics is now available for those of you who need to nebulise steroids or antibiotics.

If you are unsure as to which system would be the best for you, the Sidestream,  the Sidestream Plus or the LC Sprint  from Pari, there is lots of information in this blog, and on our website:
https://evergreen-nebulizers.co.uk/
or simply give us a call on 01942 701210 and we will be happy to help.

Shakers

New to the Mucus Clearance Device range or to give them their proper name Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure Devices is the Shaker and the Shaker Deluxe.
It was as a result of your many enquires about the Shakers that we decided to investigate further and take them on board. So far your feedback has been very positive. To view them click HERE

For those of you unfamiliar with Mucus Clearance Devices you can find out more about who may benefit from using one or how they work from the red clickable links in this page, this blog or from our web site

As with all medical devices they may not be suitable for everyone and most customers who we speak to have been guided by their G.P. Respiratory Nurse or Physiotherapist. If you have questions at all please give us a call on 01942 701210 or for further independent advice there is always our kindred spirits 

Pick and Mix with The Pari Mini

First we had the new Pari Turbo Boy SX, which when combined with the Pari LC Sprint offers you a highly efficient drug delivery system capable of nebulising steroids and antibiotics as well as bronchodilators.

Now Pari have launched the ingenious Pari Mini

Perfect for using at home, this latest addition to the Pari family is dual voltage, petite, quiet and has the capability to nebulise all of your medications, when used with the supplied LC Sprint, wherever you may be. If you want adventures to out of this world destinations or a simple a trip to the shops you only pay for the features you need. So why not pick and mix your accessories, be it a multi volt mains cable to to use in the car or a rechargeable lithium battery so you can nebulise even on the top of a mountain. The Pari Mini is a versatile, practical and affordable addition to the Pari range. For further details or to place an order click HERE

What ever happened to the Ventstream?

It is being replaced by the new durable Sidestream Plus medication chamber from Philips Respironics and is designed for the delivery of inhaled steroids and antibiotics such as Budesonide or Colomycin, as well as bronchodilators such as Salbutomol

It provides you with a faster and more accurate drug delivery by producing up to 68% of the output smaller than 4 microns, enabling more of the medication to reach your lower airways. However the real benefit of the Sidestream Plus is that the low-resistance one-way valve means it responds to your breathing pattern ensuring you get more drug on inspiration and waste less on expiration. 

It can be sterilised by boiling and gives a consistent performance for at least a year. Supplied complete with a vent hose and with an option of a filter attachment with filter pads which minimises aerosol going into the atmosphere, protecting members of the family from breathing in your medication which is particularly important when you are nebulising antibiotics or steroids.

Why not take a look at the new Innospire Deluxe Sidestream Plus 
https://evergreen-nebulizers.co.uk/philips-innospire-deluxe-nebuliser

 

Blue inhalers at the supermarket

Reliever inhalers will be on sale in Supermarkets costing £7 which is just less than the current prescription charge. Sales of Salbutamol inhalers will be carefully monitored by an online G.P. service and the pharmacist.

So far reaction to this news appears to mixed. For those of you already prescribed this medication it will be a little less expensive, perhaps more convenient and more accessible, especially at times such as when you are away from home. The news does have a downside though and as most of our Kindred Spirits point out,

Relying on a nebuliser when you are feeling more breathless than usual and taking extra doses of nebulised relievers will only disguise and delay the need to seek medical advice. British Lung Foundation

We also see a slightly different cause for concern. One that prompted us to recently revisit the basics of nebuliser therapy Many people don’t always grasp just what a nebuliser or an inhaler actually does. The news is calling them Asthma inhalers but many of you have been prescribed salbutamol for lots of other clinical conditions, and as we witness on an almost daily basis, many people believe that an inhaler or nebuliser will help cure a multitude of passing symptoms such as a cough, dry mouth, sneezes, wheezes, and all manner of upper respiratory infections as well as minor annoying tickles.

It will certainly be interesting to see what unfolds. Why not check out our Kindred Spirits and read their opinions on the subject.

Olympic Games London 2012

Just a quick note as I’m sure everyone has heard lots of news about preparations for the Olympic Games taking place in less than two weeks time.

We have had assurances from our courier that they have taken every step possible to minimise any disruption in our delivery service to those of you who live in areas that may be affected. Hopefully you will continue receive a prompt and efficient service as always.

Coincidentally we have had many more overseas visitors to this blog checking for information as to whether their nebuliser will operate on U.K. voltage. If you have friends, family or visitors coming over this summer it may be just worth a mention. European nebulisers should operate in the U.K. but for visitors who arrive from countries where the voltage is only 110v, unless they were purchased with a dual voltage facility, they won’t.

You can find more information on dual voltage nebulisers here

https://evergreen-nebulizers.co.uk/blog/travelling-with-a-portable-nebuliser 

It sounds simple but honestly it has been overlooked on so many occasions its worth a little forward planning, checking the nebuliser voltage and ensuring friends and family travel with sufficient medication and accessories, so even if the British weather doesn’t come good for London 2012 and the traffic gets a little frustrating you can all breathe easy

Nebuliser basics, who should have one?

With the pollen count on the rise and in some areas hospitals struggling to cope we thought it may an opportune moment to revisit the basics of nebuliser therapy.

A nebuliser is a powerful drug delivery system that should only be used if your G.P. or health professional has recommended that you do. Using a nebuliser during an acute episode of your chest condition at a clinic, in A&E or on a hospital ward doesn’t always mean that you will be a suitable candidate to have one at home

For those of you who do have a nebuliser at home it is important to have management plan agreed with your doctor or nurse so you know what to do if your condition gets worse.

Relying on a nebuliser when you are feeling more breathless than usual and taking extra doses of nebulised relievers will only disguise and delay the need to seek medical advice

Nebulisers will not work without medication and your health professional will prescribe those which will be most beneficial for you. The most commonly nebulised drugs are relievers such as Salbutamol but there are many others such as Saline, Steroids and Antibiotics. Some but not all medications may influence the choice of nebuliser you decide to buy and one size doesn't suit all to view our full range click HERE

Other factors to consider when choosing a nebuliser for use at home are how frequently you may be nebulising? How portable it needs to be? Is it easy to maintain and clean? Are accessories readily available? And for some of you it can be important that it is simple and easy to operate

There are many pages and clickable links throughout this blog, you can click HERE for frequently asked questions and answers and HERE to check out our website, which will provide more answers to all these questions as well as quick links to independent help and advice and if you are still unsure or confused you can call us on 01942 701210 or click HERE to email.

Check out the new BLF website

The British Lung Foundation Website has had a make over. Its easy to navigate and full of lots of of useful information and all the latest news. It provides professional support as well as an online community forum where you can chat plus details of your local breathe easy group where you can talk to people who are in a similar situation face to face.

We often hear from many of our customers what a lifeline the British Lung Foundation has been over the years so, if you haven’t already, why not check it out here:

http://www.blf.org.uk/Home

What is Carers Week?

Nearly six million people in the UK are carers and of these there are 1.9 million people caring for more than 20 hours per week and 1.25 million care for more than 50 hours per week.

Most carers are aged over 18 and the peak age for caring is 50 to 59 but there are many many young people who are under 18 and provide care for more than 50 hours a week

Carers provide unpaid care by looking after an ill, frail or disabled family member, friend or partner. Carers give so much to society yet as a consequence of caring, they can experience ill health, poverty and discrimination

When is Carers Week? Carers Week is the 18th -24th June 2012

Carers Week is a partnership of eight national charities, who come together to fund and organise the largest national awareness week in the UK and to offer support in a wide variety of ways. 

If you are a Carer or know someone who is and would like to find out more then click on the link below.

http://carersweek.org/

The New Pari Turbo Boy SX

Not to be out done the Pari TurboBoy has been upgraded too

The Pari Turbo Boy SX nebuliser is the next generation of Pari TurboBoy with a compact design which comes coupled with cutting edge compressor technology

The high output from the smooth running compressor ensures shorter nebulisation times and, when used with the LC Sprint reusable medication chamber, a highly efficient drug delivery system.  This means that there is more medication delivered to your lungs when you breathe in and and less wastage when you breathe out. and you can see for yourself how this happens by clicking HERE

When manufactures continue to innovate and upgrade their already wonderful products without a rise in price who are we to argue? Click HERE to check the Pari Turbo SX out for yourself.

The New Omron C28 P

The Omron C28P although not drastically different in appearance from the C28E still comes in at a great value price. 

The Omron C28P now has a more powerful motor with a higher output and comes supplied with the new and improved VVT neb kit.

The new VVT neb kit has a shorter nebulisation times giving a respirable output rate of 0.5ml/min compared to 0.4ml/min produced by its predecessor, uses minimal parts to nebulise and leaves minimal medication residue in the chamber which means that the entire dose is inhaled by you. It offers everything necessary for efficient drug delivery at a realistic price.

With its simple one button operation, easily assembled and clearly marked parts the Omron C28 P “it does what it says on the tin” you can order and take a look at this ever popular nebuliser by clicking HERE

Out and about with your travel nebuliser

A hobby is a regular activity or interest that is undertaken for pleasure, typically done during your leisure time. Examples of hobbies include collecting,creative and artistic pursuits, making, tinkering, sports, adult education volunteering and fund raising. Engaging in a hobby can lead to acquiring substantial skill, knowledge and experience. Some of you enjoy participating in competitive hobbies such as athletics, golf, bowling and other team games, socialising or some of you enjoy a quieter pastime such as walking, gardening, travelling or fishing.

The key word is pleasure and hopefully for most of you who have been prescribed a nebuliser, it won’t mean that your favourite hobbies have to come to an end. Indeed for many of you being diagnosed with a chronic chest condition has spurred you on to turn your pleasurable pastime into a fund raising activity to help those who were there to help you.

Priority as always has to be safety and our kindred spirits and useful links have pages of expert guidance to help you. 

Throughout our blog and website you can find red clickable links, personal stories as well as hints and tips to help you choose the most suitable nebuliser to help you continue with your favourite hobby or pastime, be it a nebuliser for the car, for travelling long distances, or a nebuliser to pop in your pocket. You can still attend your book club, visit a gallery or concert, take a walk with the dog or perhaps the more daring of you fancy a a sky dive !

Have you taken the Triple A Test?

In the UK, asthma kills three people every day, and someone is admitted to hospital with a terrifying and potentially fatal asthma attack every seven minutes, yet spotting and treating early warning signs can prevent asthma attacks and hospital admissions.

As Kate H rightly pointed out May 1st was World Asthma Day. One aspect of this campaign is to encourage people with asthma to stay safe and out of hospital. The Triple A Test from 

Asthma UK could go someway to help you achieve just that.

The Triple A Test is aimed at people with asthma to help them find out their risk of having an asthma attack and advise them what they can do to reduce it. It asks simple questions about factors which have all been independently linked to an increased or highly increased risk of an asthma attack and has so far been taken by over 30,000 people. New data from Asthma UK shows that people with asthma considerably underestimate their risk of having an attack yet, more than a third of people with asthma are at a high risk of a potentially fatal asthma attack and 93% at a higher risk than perhaps they were aware

Six weeks after they had taken the test over half of those who were asked said it had made them think more seriously about their asthma and many had taken steps to change their behaviours, including avoiding their asthma triggers, knowing when to take their medicines and knowing what to do if their symptoms get worse

To take the Triple A Test you can click here:

http://www.asthma.org.uk/get-involved/our-campaigns/the-triple-a-avoid-asthma-attacks-campaign/take-the-triple-a-avoid-asthma-attacks-test/

For independent advice or to read further you can contact Asthma UK here:

http://www.asthma.org.uk/ 

Cystic Fibrosis Week

The 29th April to the 5th May is Cystic Fibrosis Week. Launched by the CF Trust to raise awareness and encourage us all to get involved wether its by sharing your story, raising funds or signing their campaign to end the unfairness of prescription charges for people with CF and other long term conditions.

There are events taking place all over the country ranging from two massive skydive events, with over 100 participants, a national Big Cake Bake and World Record attempts on space hoppers.

You can find out more if you follow the link below

http://www.cfweek.org.uk/

Or you can follow their blog which has lots of information, useful links and personal stories here

http://cftrust.blogspot.co.uk/

The CF Trust believes that everyone living with CF deserves the highest level of care and real hope for the future so click on a link and find out how you can help.

Easter 2012

Hope you are all set for a lovely Easter Weekend despite the down turn in the weather and sticking to your resolutions to get fit and out and about whilst not forgetting that it is Easter and a little treat or two is a must.

With the Bank Holidays there will be some disruption in service with no deliveries Good Friday /Sat/Sun and Easter Monday. 

The link below popped in our email box this week and we thought it was worth sharing. It just goes to show chest problems and congestion aren't restricted to just us humans.

http://www.nortev.com/index.php/ted-walsh-talks-about-the-flexineb-nebuliser/

Getting fit for 2012

Keeping active can be a challenge if you have a long term health condition, but it can make a significant difference to your health and wellbeing and may also ease your symptoms


Asthma UK  the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and the British Lung Foundation all advocate the benefits of keeping as physically active as possible. It is considered an important part of the treatment process, bringing specific benefits for people with lung disease such as an increased ability to do daily activities, improved energy levels, reducing breathlessness and  possibly decreasing the number of days you spend in hospital.
So what is your inspiration?  The Sports Relief Mile?  The Olympics?  Or is it just the brighter weather and longer days? There are plenty of places to start if you are a little unsure. If you need help to set realistic goals and ambitions then check out the clickable links in this page. 
For those of you who are not particularly ‘sporty’, why not simply aim to improve your personal best by incorporating more into your daily routine. Achieving your goals is a great way to build your confidence, self esteem and independence. It may even help you rediscover activities you used to enjoy such as dancing. One of the best things about dancing is that while you’re having fun moving to music and meeting new people, you’re getting all the health benefits of a good workout.
You can find more great ideas and inspiration here

So why not get fit for 2012 ? Whatever your aim make sure to check with your medical professional first. There may even be a Chronic Respiratory Disease Instructor  in your area and if you need a nebuliser to help you on your way there are plenty of portable models to get you out and about. Why not give us a call on 01942 701210 and we will help you find the right model to match your ambitions.

Getting help is even easier

Since opening in 2005 the British Lung Foundation Helpline has supported more than 32,000 people. Today they have launched a new low cost number which is 03000 030 555
If you are in need of advice and support on the physical and emotional impact of lung disease along with advice on welfare benefits including disability and heating then why not give them a call.
And don't forget our other 'kindred spirits' who are always there for independent help and advice.

Nebuliser, helpful key words

Nebuliser Questions,   Buying a nebuliser, Delivery options

Home nebuliser,  Hospital nebuliser,  

Portable nebuliser,  Childrens nebuliser, 

Dual voltage nebuliser,  Nebuliser not working?

Philips Respironics,  Omron,  Medix,  Pari,  Battery,  

Car lead,  Cleaning MicroAir,  Cleaning generally.

Medications,  Saline,  Medication chamber,  

VVT Kit, Sidestream,  Sidestream Plus , LC Sprint, Mask,  

About accessories,  Buying accessories.

Mucus Clearance Devices, Sinus problems,  Flutter,
Shaker
Asthma,  Cystic Fibrosis,  COPD,  Bronchiectasis,
Lung disease and Respiratory disorders and many more helpful friends.
A few clickable links to help you navigate your way round when getting to grips with nebulisers and their related products. If you are still a little unsure there is lots more information on our blog, our website and don't forget our useful links for independent help and advice

Nebuliser Product Reviews and Comments

Yesterday we had an email asking for a space for customer feedback, so here goes.

We have kick started it with a few links to existing product reviews and personal comments but you are all welcome to add your own. However for those of you with a wicked glint in your eye unlike some other review websites we do have editorial control and although honest appraisals, genuine reviews and concerns will be very welcome, cheeky devilment won’t.

Read Marks' review of the Innospire Go on his blog

Kens story and his Innospire Deluxe

Omron Micro Air and cleaning questions.

Poetic customer springs into verse

Wendy's story

Phil Johnson, A tale of the Micro Air

Mask or Mouthpiece
Lavinia from Fermanagh

Your feedback is always appreciated

Read Keith's comment on his experience with a Shaker
Review Innospire Go

Just what is that thing in the middle

One thing we have learnt over 20 odd years is when it comes to choosing a nebuliser 'one size doesn't suit all'

Nebuliser Medication

For some of you who need regular nebuliser medication cost of prescriptions can be very expensive, especially if you are to taking other medications as well. The Prescription Payment Certificate can offer a way to keep costs as low as possible for those of you who aren’t entitled to free prescriptions and more details can be found here

Asthma UK along with other organisations in the Prescription Charges Coalition have campaigned for many years to keep prescription charges down and once again are asking for your support to encourage this Government to freeze the cost of prescriptions till 2015

If you would like to add your signature to their campaign click on the link below: 

http://www.asthma.org.uk/news_media/news/freeze_the_cost_of_p.html

Nebulisers for Children

Generally, hospitals do not advocate the use of home nebulisers for children as it is often considered clinically safer for children who need nebuliser therapy to be treated in a setting where other vital signs such as oxygen levels and heart rate can be monitored. In the past research has shown that having a nebuliser at home can also lead to a tendency for parents to rely too heavily on them which can result in a delay in seeking medical attention.

However a Consultant, G.P. or Specialist Nurse may prescribe medication for home use if certain guidelines or protocols are followed.

Nebulisers for children are most beneficial when large inhaled drug doses or pulmonary therapy is required, if children are too unwell or unable to co-ordinate drug delivery devices, or when specific medications are unavailable in hand held devices and a wider choice is needed.

So which to choose?

The majority of our nebulisers come with a child mask included and for those that don’t this can be added on request free of charge. Your choice will be influenced by the type of medication prescribed, how often your child may need nebuliser therapy and how portable you need the nebuliser to be. More advice about choosing a suitable unit to fit your child and your lifestyle can be found  by clicking HERE 

Children with cystic fibrosis or certain other respiratory disorders who may require a home nebuliser for more specialist medications should have contact with a Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Nurse or a Specialist Respiratory Nurse as they may require an alternative type of nebuliser. To check out our full range click HERE

If you’re confused or worried at all about your child there is lots of independent advice available and if you just need a little help making that final decision then why not give us a call on 01942 701210 or if you prefer you can email or leave a comment below