Inhalers and nebulizers help relieve an episode of congestion in our airways. They are essentially bronchodilators and though they work for the same end goal, nebulizers and inhalers are fundamentally different in their mode of action.
Inhalers- These are small hand-held devices that are used to deliver medications directly into the lungs. They are of 2 types- MDI metered dose inhaler and DPI dry powder inhaler.
MDIs contain liquid medications delivered as aerosol spray. The device is held 1-2 inches from the mouth. One has to breathe in slowly as the device is pressed down. Alternatively, a spacer can also be used. A spacer is a canister-like device that is attached to the device and inserted into the mouth. A spacer ensures effective delivery of the entire dose of medicine to the lungs.
A DPI is a similar device except for the fact that it releases a dry powder instead of the liquid aerosol. A DPI machine is never used with a spacer. Instead it is put into the mouth and the mouth has to be tightly closed for effective delivery of the entire dose of medicine to the lungs.
Nebulizers are devices that convert a liquid medicine into a mist that can be easily inhaled into the lungs. Nebulizers are not portable. To use it, one has to measure out the liquid medicine into a cup. This cup comes with attached tubing. The tube has to be attached to the machine. The machine is then turned on. The liquid medicine in the cup gets vaporized and one has to breathe it with the help of a mouthpiece or mask. Depending on the amount of medicine, it takes about 20 minutes to finish the complete inhalation process. All parts of the nebulizer have to be cleaned thoroughly before the next use.
Inhalers and nebulizers are available only by prescription. Some brands of inhalers are available over-the-counter too. Always consult your doctor before using an inhaler, as it is advisable that people with certain diseases avoid using them.
Make sure your doctor demonstrates the use of an inhaler well. Also, make sure that you have understood the demonstration!
Improper use could lead to less medicine getting delivered to the lungs, resulting in poor disease control.
