All About Asthma Inhalers
When you see somebody suffering from an asthma attack how do they normally stop the attack? You will often see them grab an asthma inhaler to help open their airways and stop their wheezing. The inhaler contains asthma medication that provides immediate relief from an asthma attack.
How do asthma inhalers work? Inhalers contain asthma medication that is sent directly to your lungs in a quick and efficient fashion. Plus, the asthma medication in inhalers packs a strong punch with a higher concentration of medicine.
Are all asthma inhalers the same? No. There are several types of asthma inhalers. For example, there are metered-dose inhalers, multidose-powder, dry-power inhalers, and holding chambers. Let’s take a look at each type of inhaler in further detail.
Metered-dose inhalers…
This type of asthma inhaler is composed of a pressurized canister that houses the asthma medication. This canister is placed in a plastic sleeve and has a mouthpiece attached to it. You inhale the drug through the mouthpiece. Your doctor will show you how to use the metered-dose inhaler correctly. They will give you a prescription that will indicate the frequency and number of puffs of the inhaler you should take. Make sure to follow the prescription information exactly.
Multidose-powder inhalers…
An example of this type of inhaler is the asthma medication called Advair. Advair contains fluticasone and salmeterol which is essentially a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting bronchodilator. This type of inhaler is often much easier to use thus is very popular. Your doctor will explain how to use this inhaler and how often and when you should use it.
Dry-powder inhalers…
This type of inhaler is asthma medication that comes in a dry-powder form. The dry powder usually contains both anti-inflammatory asthma medications as well as bronchodilators. Dry-powder inhalers are often used for young children as they are easier to use and safer for younger patients. Your doctor will show you how to use this type of asthma inhaler properly.
Holding chamber inhalers…
This type of inhaler is mainly used for young children. If you have trouble using other inhalers, such as the metered-dose inhalers, then a holding chamber may be a better choice. The holding chamber contains asthma medication that is released when you inhale. Your doctor will show you how to use the holding chamber as well as tell you how often and how many breaths to take when you use it.
The purpose of all these asthma inhalers is to reduce the inflammation in your airways. This opens your lungs and airways so you can breathe easier. These inhalers can provide quick relief as well as benefit you over time. For example, it may take a few weeks for the full advantages of asthma medications, such as Advair, to surface. The key is to take your asthma medication properly. Work with your doctor to learn how to use your inhaler correctly. Most likely your doctor will prescribe both short-term and long-term medications to manage your asthma. Unfortunately, you can’t totally cure your asthma, but you can find ways to alleviate its devastating symptoms.
