The asthma inhaler has changed the way that asthma is treated in this country.  A medical miracle, the asthma inhaler enables adults and children to administer medicine directly into their lungs virtually anywhere.  The asthma inhaler is generally used to relieve or control asthma symptoms, since an asthma cure does not yet exist.

         Using an asthma inhaler may be just one aspect of your overall asthma management program, which may also involve checking your lung function with a peak flow meter, exercising, and eliminating asthma triggers.  Still, knowing the type of asthma inhaler that is available and how to use it can help you manage your asthma.

          An asthma inhaler is a portable device you can easily hold in your hand.  While an asthma inhaler may come in a number of different varieties, it is usually classified as either a metered-dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler.

          A metered-dose asthma inhaler uses a chemical propellant to squeeze the medication out.  With this type of asthma inhaler, the drug can be released by exerting pressure on the canister or through direct inhalation. 

          A metered-dose asthma inhaler does not involve the use of a chemical propellant.  The medication is released from the asthma inhaler by breathing more quickly than you would with a metered-dose asthma inhaler. 

          An asthma inhaler can be used to administer a number of different kinds of asthma medications.  In some cases, the asthma inhaler is used for long-term control while in others, it is used for a quick relief of symptoms.

          Some of the medications administered by means of an asthma inhaler include short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol and pirbuterol; long-acting bronchodilators such as salmeterol and formoterol; and corticosteroids such as flunisolide and budesonide.

          An asthma inhaler can allow a person with asthma to be physically active without worrying about an attack.  Also, since an asthma inhaler is highly portable, it is quick and convenient.  Still, it is important to use an asthma inhaler properly for maximum effectiveness.

          Before you use an asthma inhaler for the first time, it's a good idea to have a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist provide a demonstration.  You should then use the asthma inhaler in front of the medical professional to make sure that you are using it appropriately.

          If you cannot use an asthma inhaler for some reason, you might consider a nebulizer.  Young children, especially toddlers, often use a nebulizer rather than an asthma inhaler because it's easier for administering the medication.  In certain circumstances,
a nebulizer may be preferable to an asthma inhaler for older people.

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