Mdi Vs. Nebulizer

Nebulizers and MDIs, or metered-dose inhalers, are medical devices used to deliver medications to patients with asthma or other respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Asthma is a serious respiratory condition that results in blocked or constricted airways, which can cause wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. Most asthma patients have a prescribed medication administered via a nebulizer or an MDI to treat acute asthma attacks. Some patients also use nebulizers or an inhaler daily to help prevent symptoms and breathing difficulties.

Size

• Metered-dose inhalers are much smaller than nebulizers. Inhalers can easily fit in a pocket, purse or small bag. However, because they are small they can be easy to misplace. Meanwhile, nebulizers are larger and bulkier than inhalers and are not as easy to travel with. Most nebulizers are powered by electricity, but there are some battery-operated models that are easier to travel with.

How an MDI Works

• Metered-dose inhalers are similar to small aerosol cans. Patients place one end of the inhaler in their mouth and push down on the small canister to deliver a dose of medication that is similar to a puff of air. The medication is inhaled to help treat respiratory symptoms.

How a Nebulizer Works

• A nebulizer works by creating a mist containing the medication needed to treat respiratory conditions. The mist can be inhaled through a face mask worn over the mouth, and nose or a mouthpiece held in front of the mouth and nose.

Inhaler Benefits

• Inhalers are easy for asthma patients to carry with them, making them a convenient choice for people who are busy and active or whose asthma tends to be induced by exercise or other physical activity. In addition, a metered-dose inhaler can easily administer a dose an medication in just seconds, quickly helping improve breathing conditions. However, because they are small they are easy to misplace. It is often recommended that people who use an inhaler keep one in areas where they are easy to get to and likely to need them, such as a backpack or purse and the car.

Nebulizer Benefits

• A nebulizer is often the best choice for young children, who may have more difficulty using an inhaler. In fact, most asthma and respiratory drugs aren't typically prescribed to be administered via inhaler until children are about 6. A nebulizer is easy for even young children to use because all they have to do is wear a face mask or hold a mouthpiece in front of their mouth and nose. One potential drawback is that it typically takes about five or 10 minutes for all the medication to be administered. Because they are necessary for treatment of many respiratory conditions, many health insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of buying a nebulizer. Check with your insurance company for details.