Asthma Inhaler Types
Introduction of different types of asthma inhalers has revolutionized the treatment of asthmatic patients. Asthma inhaler is effective regardless of the age of the patient. It can be used for children as well as the elderly. Asthma inhalers come in various types which prove effective in relieving as well as controlling the asthma symptoms. Two most common asthma inhaler types: 1) Dry powder asthma inhaler Dry powder asthma inhaler is considered to be easier to use asthma inhaler type as no hand-lung coordination is necessary. There is no squeezing required in a dry powder inhaler. One has to place his mouth on the mouthpiece of the inhaler and breath faster than in case of a metered-dose inhaler. Proper use of the inhaler becomes more important, rather than which type of inhaler is being used, for the effectiveness of the medication in the asthma inhaler. When asthma medication is taken regularly some difficulty may be experienced, especially with corticosteroids. 2) Metered dose asthma inhalers. The working principle of metered-dose inhaler is based on pressure. A pressurized canister releases a fine mist when squeezed at the top. A different kind of metered-dose inhalers doesn't require the squeezing mechanism. They are usually breath actuated and one can inhale the mist simply by placing ones lips on or near the mouthpiece of the inhaler. Asthma inhalers are utilized to provide various kinds of asthmatic medications to the asthma patient. While some of these medications provide quick relief the others prove effective in long term. Corticosteroids, long acting bronchodilators, short acting bronchodilators, nedocromil or cromolyn and corticosteroids plus long acting bronchodilators are few of the inhaled asthma medications used in asthma inhalers.. Use of asthma inhalers is only a small tool in the complete treatment plan. Avoiding the asthma triggers and use of peak flow meter to check the lung function also form a part of the treatment plan. Learning how to use an asthma inhaler and knowing the various types of asthma inhalers available for use helps in devising the best possible treatment plan which will be most effective on the asthma symptoms. Squeezing or direct inhalation is required in a metered-dose inhaler for chemical propellant to release the medication out of the inhaler. The dry powder inhaler is fast acting and no kind of chemical propellant is present in it to force the medication out of the inhaler. It releases the medication when inhaled.
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