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 inhaler is generally used to relieve or control symptoms, since a cure does not yet exist.

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

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

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

A inhaler can be used to administer a number of different kinds of medications. In some cases, the 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 a 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.

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

Before you use a 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 a inhaler for some reason, you might consider a nebulizer. Young children, especially toddlers, often use a nebulizer rather than a inhaler because it's easier for administering the medication. In certain circumstances, a nebulizer may be preferable to a inhaler for older people.