Final answer:
Nebulizers and metered dose inhalers differ in their method of delivering medication. Nebulizers transform liquid medication into a mist and are ideal for young children or those who struggle with coordination, while metered dose inhalers require more coordination to manually deliver the medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary differences between nebulizers and metered-dose inhalers lie in how they work and who they're best suited for. A nebulizer is a machine that transforms liquid medicine into a fine mist that patients breathe in through a mask or mouthpiece. It's often easier for young children or individuals who struggle with hand-breathing coordination, as it requires less manual work to operate.
On the contrary, a metered dose inhaler is a handheld device that delivers a specific amount of medication in aerosol form. Patients must inhale the medication as they manually trigger the device. This method requires a decent amount of coordination which may not be possible for some individuals.
Both methods influence the condition, frequency of attacks and identified triggers. For severe asthma treatment, the choice between a nebulizer and a metered dose inhaler often depends on the patient's ease of use, their age, and the severity of their condition.
Learn more about Nebulizers and Inhalers