Most Common Inhalers to Treat COPD
As you know, COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a type of lung disease that restricts the air flow which makes it difficult for the patient to breathe. The medicines for COPD would hardly ensure proper cure from the disease. However, the treatment options can give you relief from the symptoms.
One of the common treatments available for COPD is using inhalers. An inhaler is a small device that helps you breathe the medicine.
There are different types of inhalers available. Hence, it can put you in a confusion as to what works best for you. Read here the most common inhaler COPD treatments available.
Short-acting bronchodilator inhalers
This is one of the commonly used inhalers. The effectiveness of this type of inhaler differs from person to person, which means it may or may not work for you. However, people with mild symptoms may find relief from short-acting bronchodilator inhalers.
The medicine in the inhaler relaxes muscles in the airway and makes it wider within 5 to 15 minutes of use if it is beta-agonist. If the inhaler is antimuscarinic, you will get relief within 45 minutes. The effect of the medicine lasts for 3 to 6 hours.
Long-acting bronchodilator inhalers
The long-acting bronchodilator inhalers work similar to the short-acting bronchodilator inhalers, but for a longer time. It typically gives you relief for around 12 hours. If the symptoms are severe, you can opt for long-acting bronchodilator inhalers. If the short-acting bronchodilator does not give you relief from the symptoms, your doctor may advise you to use this type of inhaler COPD.
Steroid inhalers
Steroids are often used for reducing inflammation. This type of inhaler COPD helps you inhale steroids which will give you better relief from the symptoms of COPD. It mostly helps to reduce the flare-ups and therefore recommended for people with extremely severe symptoms and flare-ups. It is commonly used along with long-acting bronchodilator medicines.
The choice of the inhaler depends on your personal preferences. Consult with your doctor and choose the right one for you.
