Inhalers play an important role in addressing asthma symptoms. These small devices can deliver a dose of medication directly to your lungs. That medication can reduce lung inflammation or help open up your airways.
If you need help with asthma or have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), inhalers are a must-have. But how can you get them?
Prescription Inhalers
Prescription inhalers are the go-to for most. The inhaler itself is a simple tool for medication administration. What's important is the canister that contains medication.
Those who need help with asthma symptoms typically use prescription inhalers with corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists. Depending on your unique condition, your doctor may prescribe inhalers with a bronchodilator.
Inhalers are an essential part of asthma treatment and management. Your doctor may prescribe asthma medication you take once or twice a day. They can come in oral pills or with an inhaler to get the medicine directly into your lungs. Doctors also recommend people with asthma carry a rescue inhaler with albuterol.
Albuterol is an adrenergic bronchodilator that works quickly to address asthma attacks and general difficulties breathing.
If you have asthma or other breathing conditions, speak with a doctor in person or via telemedicine to discuss your options.
Over-the-Counter Inhalers
Another option is to explore over-the-counter (OTC) inhalers. Like other OTC medications, you don't need a prescription to get one. That removes a common barrier, but it also means that the medication within them isn't as powerful as prescription drugs.
Generally, people opt for OTC inhalers when they suffer from milder symptoms. For example, they're a fine choice when dealing with wheezing. But if you frequently encounter asthma attacks, OTC inhalers you can get at any drug store are not the solution.
Another thing to consider is cost and insurance coverage. Insurance companies typically don't cover the cost of OTC inhalers. However, they will cover part of, if not all, the costs associated with getting prescription inhalers. Of course, that depends on your policy, but most insurance plans include inhalers.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown writes about mental and physical health. She advises people on Paediatrician & online Psychiatrist consultation. You can find her thoughts at medical advice blog.