Many experts think that if you are using very good technique, an inhaler with a spacer and mask can be as good as using a nebulizer to deliver asthma medications.
A nebulizer also can have many disadvantages. In addition to taking almost 10 minutes to complete a breathing treatment, many younger children cry if they have to wear a mask to deliver the nebulized treatment. Nebulizers also aren't as convenient or portable as an inhaler.
Instructions for using a spacer and mask with an inhaler include that you:
- put the inhaler mouthpiece into the spacer
- shake the inhaler and spacer
- hold the mask over your child's nose and mouth and create a good seal
- press the inhaler
- have your child breath in and out at least six times to be sure that he gets all of the medicine
- remove the mask and repeat if more than one puff was prescribed
