Medical Inhalers for Respiratory Conditions

Medical inhalers are devices that deliver medication directly to the lungs to help manage respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.
Category
Medical Device
Where to get
Prescribed by healthcare providers and available in pharmacies.
Applicable for
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Medical Inhalers FAQ


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What is an inhaler used for?

An inhaler is a device containing a medicine that you take by breathing in (inhaling). Inhalers are the main treatment for asthma and help to control asthma symptoms. There are many different types of inhaler, which can be confusing.

What is an asthma inhaler & how does it work?

What is an asthma inhaler and how does it work? An inhaler is a device used to treat and relieve symptoms of asthma by delivering medicine into the lungs. There are two main types of inhalers - a reliever and a preventer.Reliever inhalers work by relaxing the muscles in your airways to open them up, allowing you to breathe more easily.

What are the different types of inhalers?

Inhalers are small, handheld devices that allow you to breathe medicine in through your mouth, directly to your lungs. Types include metered-dose, dry powder and soft mist inhalers. They usually treat asthma and COPD but providers may prescribe them for other conditions. Bronchodilators and corticosteroids are common inhaled medications.

What type of Medicine is used in preventer inhalers?

The type of medicine commonly used in preventer inhalers is a steroid. Steroids work by reducing the inflammation in the airways. When the inflammation is reduced, the airways are much less likely to become narrow and cause symptoms such as wheezing.

What is an asthma inhaler?

An asthma inhaler is a device used for the treatment of asthma. It delivers medication to your lungs by breathing it in (inhaling). Written by a GP.

What are steroid inhalers used for?

Steroid inhalers, also called corticosteroid inhalers, are anti-inflammatory sprays or powders that you breathe in. They're mainly used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Steroid inhalers are only available on prescription. Common types include:

How do asthma inhalers work?

The aim of treatment with asthma inhalers is to manage asthma symptoms so that the reliever inhaler should almost never be needed. Inhalers that contain medicines called sodium cromoglicate (brand name Intal®) or nedocromil (brand name Tilade®) are sometimes used as preventers, particularly in adults and in children aged over 5 years.

Medical Inhalers References

If you want to know more about Medical Inhalers, consider exploring links below:

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