Asthma is a common condition in children, and as a parent, it’s important to understand the signs of asthma in kids and the different treatment options available. One of the most effective ways to manage asthma is using inhalers.
Let’s break down the different types of inhalers for asthma in kids so that you can make informed decisions about your child’s health.
Understanding Asthma in Kids
Asthma in kids is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that affects the lungs of your child, causing wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing.
These symptoms can be scary for both kids and parents. Knowing the signs of asthma in kids can help you catch it early and manage it better.
Common Signs of Asthma in Kids
One of the first steps in dealing with asthma is recognizing signs of asthma in kids. These include:
- Frequent coughing: Especially at night or during play.
- Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing.
- Shortness of breath: Trouble breathing or feeling out of breath.
- Chest tightness or pain: Complaints of a tight chest.
- Fatigue: Tiring quickly during play or physical activities.
If you notice these signs of asthma in kids, it’s a good idea to talk to your child’s doctor. They can perform tests to determine if your child has asthma and how severe it is.
Why Inhalers Are Important
Inhalers are devices that deliver asthma medication directly to the lungs. They are crucial in managing asthma because they help open the airways, making it easier to breathe.
There are different types of inhalers, each serving a specific purpose.
The Main Types of Inhalers Based on Device
Understanding the different types of inhalers can be overwhelming. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what each one does and when it should be used.
Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs)
Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) are the most common type of inhaler that delivers a specific amount of medicine in each puff.
How MDIs Work
MDIs release a spray of medicine when pressed. Your child needs to press the inhaler and breathe in at the same time, which can be tricky.
To make it easier, you can use a spacer. A spacer is a tube that attaches to the inhaler, holding the medicine until your child breathes it in.
Benefits of MDIs
MDIs are portable and easy to carry around. They are typically used for both quick relief and long-term control medications.
Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)
Dry powder inhalers deliver medicine in the form of a dry powder. They are activated by breathing in quickly.
How DPIs Work
Your child needs to take a fast, deep breath to get the medicine into their lungs. This might be easier for older children who can follow instructions well.
Unlike MDIs, DPIs don’t require your child to coordinate pressing the inhaler and breathing in simultaneously.
Benefits of DPIs
DPIs are easy to use and often used for long-term control medications.
Soft Mist Inhalers (SMIs)
Soft mist inhalers are newer and create a fine mist that is easy to inhale.
How SMIs Work
SMIs release a soft mist of medicine when activated. The mist stays in the air a little longer, giving your child more time to inhale it.
Because the mist is soft and slow-moving, it’s easier for children of all ages to use.
Benefits of SMIs
SMIs offer precise dosing and are easy to use. They are also effective in delivering medication deep into the lungs.
The Main Types of Inhalers Based on Their Purpose
Inhalers are divided into three main categories based on their purpose.
Quick-Relief Inhalers
Quick-relief inhalers are also known as rescue inhalers. They are used to provide fast relief from asthma symptoms.
When to Use Them
These inhalers are used during an asthma attack or when your child feels symptoms coming on. Quick relief inhalers work quickly to open up the airways.
Common Medications
Albuterol (Proventil HFA®, ProAir®, Ventolin HFA®) is a common medication found in quick-relief inhalers. It helps relax the muscles around the airways.
Controller Inhalers
Long-term control inhalers are used daily to manage asthma and prevent symptoms.
Daily Use
These inhalers are not for immediate relief. Instead, they work overtime to reduce inflammation and keep the airways open.
Common Medications
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICs) are commonly used in long-term control inhalers. The ICs help reduce inflammation in the airways.
Combination Inhalers
Combination inhalers contain two different types of medication in one device. They are designed to provide both long-term control and quick relief in a single inhaler, making asthma management more convenient.
How Combination Inhalers Work
Combination inhalers typically contain both an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA). Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation in the airways, while the LABA helps keep the airways open by relaxing the muscles around them.
This dual action helps prevent asthma symptoms and manage flare-ups more effectively.
When is Nebulizer Used?
For babies and very young children with asthma who can’t use an inhaler, a nebulizer is often used. A nebulizer turns liquid asthma medicine into a mist that a child can inhale.
The medicine goes into a cup connected to a mask that fits over the child’s mouth and nose. When the machine is turned on, the mist comes out through the mask. The child just needs to breathe normally to get the medication.
Treatment of Asthma in Kids in Purchase, NY
If you’ve noticed any signs of asthma in your child, such as frequent coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, don’t wait to seek help.
At Westchester Park Pediatrics, our team of experienced pediatricians can provide comprehensive asthma care tailored to your child’s needs. We specialize in educating parents about the importance of inhalers and how to use them effectively.
To learn more about the signs of asthma in kids or asthma inhalers, call us today at (914) 761-1717. If you want to schedule a consultation with one of our pediatricians, fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
