Inhaler Basics: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever been handed an inhaler at the doctor’s office, you probably wondered how it actually works and whether it could affect other health issues, like bleeding risk. The short answer: inhalers deliver medicine straight to your lungs, so they act fast and usually cause fewer side effects than pills. But not all inhalers are the same, and using one the wrong way can waste medicine and even raise the chance of a bleed, especially if you’re on steroids.

Types of Inhalers

There are three main families you’ll see on pharmacy shelves:

• Metered‑dose inhalers (MDI) – These look like small spray cans. You press down to release a puff of medication. They’re cheap and portable, but you need a spacer to get the right dose if you have trouble coordinating breath.
• Dry‑powder inhalers (DPI) – No spray here. You breathe in quickly, and the powder is sucked into your airways. DPIs need a strong, fast inhale, so they’re not the best if you have very weak lungs.
• Soft‑mist inhalers – These create a fine mist without a propellant. They’re easier for beginners because the mist stays in the mouth longer, giving you more time to swallow the dose.

Pick the one that matches your breathing ability and lifestyle. If you travel a lot, an MDI with a spacer is a safe bet. If you’re already strong enough to take a deep breath, a DPI can be more convenient.

How to Use an Inhaler Correctly

Bad technique means most of the drug gets stuck in your mouth or throat instead of reaching the lungs. Follow these steps for an MDI, the most common type:

1. Shake the inhaler for a few seconds.
2. Exhale fully, but don’t blow out all the air – just empty your lungs.
3. Place the mouthpiece between your lips, seal tightly.
4. Press the canister once while you start to breathe in slowly.
5. Continue inhaling for about three seconds, then hold your breath for ten seconds.
6. Exhale gently and wait about a minute before the next puff.

If you use a DPI, skip the shaking step and just load a dose, then inhale quickly and deeply. Remember to clean your inhaler once a week – a dirty mouthpiece can harbor bacteria and affect dosing.

One piece many forget: inhaled steroids can thin your blood a little, which matters if you’re already on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder. The CRUSADE Bleeding Score helps doctors weigh that risk. To keep things safe, tell your provider about every inhaled medication, especially high‑dose steroids.

Here are a few quick tips to stay on top of bleeding risk while using an inhaler:

• Schedule a follow‑up after you start a new steroid inhaler.
• Ask your pharmacist to check the inhaler’s propellant – some contain substances that can interact with anticoagulants.
• Watch for signs of easy bruising or nosebleeds; report them right away.

In short, the right inhaler paired with the right technique can make breathing easier and keep bleeding concerns low. Keep your device clean, practice the steps daily, and stay in touch with your healthcare team. That way you get the relief you need without adding extra risk.