Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTypesHow They WorkTechniqueWhen to UseSide EffectsFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Types
How They Work
Technique
When to Use
Side Effects
Frequently Asked Questions
Inhalers are used during anasthma attackto expand the airways, allowing for the flow of oxygen. People with asthma should carry a rescue inhaler with them at all times to stop an acute asthma attack and prevent serious complications.
This article discusses the different types of inhalers, how they work, and the proper technique for using them.
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Types of Inhalers
There are several different types of inhalers used totreat asthma.
Metered Dose Inhalers
Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) are small, pressurized metal containers with a plastic mouthpiece, meant for handheld use. Asthma medication is dispensed in a measured dose.
MDIs are very common because they are easy to use and carry.
Dry Powder Inhaler
A dry powder inhaler (DPI) is a device used to deliver asthma medication in the form of a dry powder. The device is not under pressure in the way that an MDI is, so it does not “push” the medication into your lungs. Rather, you must inhale deeply to get the medication.
Advair Diskus is a common brand of DPI.
Nebulizer
Anebulizeris a device that changes a liquid medication into an aerosol so that it can be inhaled, relieving symptoms faster. It is not an inhaler, but an alternative treatment to an inhaler.
While nebulizers are frequently used to deliver asthma medications, they are not as convenient to carry as an MDI because they require electricity. This makes them more difficult to use for a sudden asthma attack.
How Do Inhalers Work?
Inhalers deliver medication directly to the lungs. These medications typically work to either reduce inflammation in the airways or to dilate the airways.
Medications that dilate the airways are meant to enlarge their diameter to increase oxygen flow. These are calledbronchodilators. In this manner, inhalers can sometimes prevent future asthma attacks (usually with medications that reduce inflammation) or treat an acute asthma attack.
The Right Technique
Metered Dose Inhaler
MDIs can be used with or without a special holding chamber, sometimes called a spacer.
Without a spacer:
With a spacer:
Using a nebulizer may be a bit more complicated, depending on the specific type of equipment you own.
Be sure to wash your hands before handling your equipment and medications, and always keep your equipment clean. Then do the following:
When Should You Use an Inhaler?
Some inhalers are used toprevent asthma attacksrather than treat an acute attack. These inhalers are used at regular intervals. Rescue inhalers are used to treat an acute asthma attack.
Individuals who have been diagnosed with asthma should have something called an asthma action plan, which outlines specific steps that should be taken to prevent and treat an asthma attack. This includes when to use your rescue inhaler.
Most asthmatics will need to use their rescue inhaler as soon as they experience symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
Potential Side Effects
While the exact side effects depend on the specific medication you are inhaling, most rescue inhalers can cause side effects such as:
Overuse of your asthma medications may exacerbate (worsen) side effects. Use your medications only as prescribed, follow your asthma action plan, and contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist with any questions or concerns to avoid this.
What to Expect During a Severe Asthma Attack
Summary
Inhalers are small devices that expand the airways, which allows for the flow of oxygen. They are used to treat asthma and some other conditions. The main types of inhalers include metered dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers. Nebulizers are an alternative treatment to inhalers.
Each type is different, so be sure to carefully read the instructions of whatever inhaler you use to treat your asthma.
The correct use of inhalers is an important component of managing asthma and improving your quality of life. Knowing how to use your inhaler properly can give you peace of mind in the event of an asthma attack. If you are unsure how to use your inhaler, discuss with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
This may depend on a variety of factors, including the specific medication inhaled as well as the way your body metabolizes it. Maintenance inhalers that address underlying inflammation and are taken at regular intervals do not work as quickly and may require many doses before you notice improvement. Rescue inhalers typically work very fast, within minutes after the dose is finished.
Inhalers can contain many different medications, but they typically fall into specific classes of medications including corticosteroids or beta agonists.
If you are using a corticosteroid inhaler, you should rinse your mouth with water and spit the water out right after use. However, after you have rinsed your mouth out, you can drink normally.
5 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.American Academy of Family Physicians.How to use a metered dose inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use an inhaler - with spacer.Allergy and Asthma Network.How to use a dry powder inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use a nebulizer.National Health Service.Steroid inhalers.
5 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.American Academy of Family Physicians.How to use a metered dose inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use an inhaler - with spacer.Allergy and Asthma Network.How to use a dry powder inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use a nebulizer.National Health Service.Steroid inhalers.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
American Academy of Family Physicians.How to use a metered dose inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use an inhaler - with spacer.Allergy and Asthma Network.How to use a dry powder inhaler.MedlinePlus.How to use a nebulizer.National Health Service.Steroid inhalers.
American Academy of Family Physicians.How to use a metered dose inhaler.
MedlinePlus.How to use an inhaler - with spacer.
Allergy and Asthma Network.How to use a dry powder inhaler.
MedlinePlus.How to use a nebulizer.
National Health Service.Steroid inhalers.
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