Asthma is the most common respiratory and allergy problem seen throughout the world. Many children and adults with asthma require to take regular metered dose inhalers (MDI) for control of their asthma or for symptom relief. These preventive metered dose inhalers (MDI) are in the form of a corticosteroid while the reliever metered dose inhalers (MDI) are in the form of a bronchodilator like salbutamol. Spacers are very useful for young children with asthma who require metered dose inhalers (MDI). In this article we discuss how spacers can be very helpful even for young adults with asthma who need to take metered dose inhalers (MDI).
What are spacers?
Spacer is a very simple device. Spacer is like a plastic tube which acts as a holding chamber. A spacer has a mouthpiece at one end for the person to breathe in/out and an inhaler can be attached at the other end. Spacers are available in various shapes, sizes and brands. Most of them are similar and serve their purpose.
How do spacers help when used with metered dose inhalers (MDI) ?
To take a metered dose inhaler (MDI), the person needs to time the pressing of the inhaler (called as actuation) while he or she is breathing in (or inspiration). In most people this coordination is not proper leading to suboptimal improvement in symptoms. In addition, if a person takes a metered dose inhaler (MDI) directly in the mouth without a spacer, then most of the medicine ends up inside the mouth instead of the lungs. Research throughout the world has shown that most adults are unable to take inhalers in a proper way, with many errors.
When a spacer is used along with an inhaler it has many advantages. When a spacer is used along with an inhaler no coordination is needed while actuating the inhaler with the breath. Using a spacer with an inhaler allows more time for the medicine to enter into the lungs. The spacer also concentrates the medicine improving the delivery of the medicine into the lungs. Also as the particle becomes smaller in size the deposition in the mouth reduces, thereby reducing the side effects.
Are spacers recommended for young adults?
Spacers should be used while taking metered dose inhalers (MDI) in young adults (18-25 years) and ideally at all ages. Spacers are absolutely necessary with preventive inhalers as they reduce the deposition in mouth and improve delivery into lungs. Many people find it difficult to carry spacers as they might be cumbersome. Since preventive metered dose inhalers (MDI) are used twice a day there is no need to carry the metered dose inhalers (MDI) and spacer. Reliever inhalers can be taken even without a spacer especially when not at home, although it is better to take with a spacer.
In case you are having asthma and require to take an metered dose inhaler (MDI) do get in touch with a pulmonologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Have a discussion about what inhaler/spacer device to use and learn the best technique for a good asthma control.
