Which Inhaler Is Good For Treating Asthma - Here, we are going to discuss Which inhaler is good for treating asthma? It is very important to get a diagnosis from the doctor and know about the different triggers of asthma attacks. Here we are going to get all the information regarding asthma, inhalers, and their types. So, let’s start!

Asthma and Its Classification

Asthma is a respiratory condition in which the airways get narrower and swell. Also, it may produce extra mucus. This leads to difficulty breathing and causes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The symptoms of asthma varied from person to person. Here is the list of most common symptoms of asthma are-

Shortness of breath
Chest tightness or pain
Wheezing
Coughing

Other worsen symptoms of asthma are

Exercise-induced asthma
Triggered irritants such as gases, dust, fumes, chemicals, etc.
Allergy-induced asthma but pollen, cockroach waste. Pets, etc.

Classification of Asthma

Asthma is usually classified into 4 categories on the basis of physical exams and diagnostic tests. So, here are the categories -

Mild intermittent - mild symptoms that show up to a week to a month.
Mild Persistent - regular symptoms appearing twice a week
Moderate Persistent - Symptoms appear every other day
Severe Persistent - Symptoms remain throughout the day and are frequent at night.

What is the treatment for Asthma?

After conducting a physical exam, the doctor plans to give medication for the long-term prevention of asthma attacks. In India, it is quite rare to detect early signs of asthma due to a lack of awareness. There are some medical tests such as imaging tests, Nitric oxide tests, sputum eosinophils, etc. for diagnosing asthma. It is important to give attention to the causes or triggers of an asthma attack. There are many long-term and short-term asthma control medications.

The type of medication depends upon the asthma triggers, age, and symptoms. Using long-term medication such as inhalers, leukotriene modifiers, combination inhalers, and theophylline helps in reducing inflammation in the airways. On the other hand, short-term or quick-relief asthma medication includes short-acting beta-agonists, anticholinergic agents, and oral & intravenous corticosteroids. Among all these medications, inhalers are the most used and popular.

Inhalers and Its Classification | A Brief

An inhaler is also known as a pump or allergy spray or puffer. This device is used for the delivery of medication to the lungs. It helps in quick absorption in the lungs and gives instant relief. Inhalers are widely used for treating symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Now, let’s take a look into the types of inhalers that are classified on the basis of the method of medicine delivery.

Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) - They release medication automatically with a propellant and disperse it into a mist.
Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs) - It contains dry powder medication with a propellant for dispersing the mist through breathing.
Soft Mist Inhalers (SMI) - These inhalers release a mild mist of medication with or without a suspension.
Nebulizer - It helps in delivering medication for a longer period of time by continuously generating mist. Nebulizers are usually used for treating infants and toddlers.