Asthma inhalers: types, how to use them, and simple care tips

Most people think an inhaler is just an inhaler. Problem is, using the wrong one at the wrong time or with bad technique can make asthma feel worse, not better. This page cuts through the noise: what each inhaler does, how to use it correctly, and easy maintenance tips so your medicine actually works.

Which inhaler does what

There are two main goals with inhalers: stop an attack fast, and prevent attacks over time.

• Rescue inhalers (short-acting bronchodilators) — like albuterol. Use these for sudden wheeze, tight chest, or shortness of breath. They act within minutes and last a few hours.
• Controller inhalers (inhaled steroids) — reduce inflammation when used daily. They don’t give instant relief but cut how often attacks happen.
• Long-acting bronchodilators (LABA) and combination inhalers — often mixed with steroids for better daily control. Useful if you still have symptoms on a steroid alone.
• Dry powder inhalers (DPI) vs Metered-dose inhalers (MDI) — DPIs need a quick, deep inhale; MDIs spray and usually need coordination or a spacer.
• Nebulizers — turn liquid medicine into a mist. They’re handy for very young kids, severe attacks, or when you can’t use an inhaler properly.

Quick technique tips and care

How you use the device matters as much as which one you have. Follow these quick steps and keep your inhaler ready when you need it.

• Using an MDI: Shake, breathe out, seal lips around the mouthpiece, press and inhale slowly for 3–5 seconds, hold your breath 10 seconds if you can, then breathe out. Wait 30–60 seconds between puffs.
• Using a DPI: Don’t shake. Load the dose, exhale away from the mouthpiece, inhale quickly and deeply, then hold your breath 5–10 seconds.
• Use a spacer if you have trouble timing an MDI. Spacers cut down throat spray and get more medicine to the lungs—great for kids and older adults.
• Rinse after steroids: If your controller is a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth and spit after use to lower the risk of thrush.
• Check dose counters and expiry: Many inhalers have counters—don’t guess how many puffs are left. Store at room temp, avoid extreme heat or freezing.
• Clean weekly: Remove the canister (if your device allows), rinse the plastic parts in warm water, air dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Watch how often you need your rescue inhaler. Needing it more than twice a week (except before exercise) usually means your asthma control needs work—talk to your clinician about stepping up controller treatment. If you have fast breathing, blue lips, severe chest tightness, or rescue meds don’t help, get immediate care.

Want a quick checklist? Know what type each inhaler is, practice the technique with a nurse or pharmacist, use a spacer if instructed, rinse after steroid inhalers, and check dose counters. Small changes in how you use and care for your inhaler can make a big difference.