Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most common treatments for asthma is an inhaler, which delivers medication directly to the lungs to relieve symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
The majority of asthma medications are taken by mouth using an inhaler or puffer. There are various kinds, and the one you use will depend on your age, how well your lungs function, and which equipment is the simplest for you to use. You should be instructed on how to take your asthma medication by a doctor, chemist, or nurse.
COPD Specialist, Asthma Specialist, ILD Lung Specialist, Sleep Apnea Specialist
Getting Ready
Remove the cap from your inhaler and shake it well to ensure that the medication is properly mixed. If this is your first time using the inhaler or if you haven’t used it in a while, you may need to prime it by releasing a test spray into the air.
- You might need to prime the inhaler if you haven’t used it in a while. For details on when and how to do this, refer to the instructions that came with your inhaler.
- Remove the cap.
- Verify that nothing is inside the mouthpiece by taking a look inside.
- Shake the inhaler vigorously 10 to 15 times before each use.
- Breathe completely out. Air should be expelled as much as possible.
Breathe in slowly
Start to inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth, while simultaneously pressing down on the inhaler to release the medication.
- Placing the mouthpiece downward, hold the inhaler. Put your lips completely around the mouthpiece to form a secure seal.
- Press down once on the inhaler as you begin to inhale slowly through your mouth.
- Continue taking calm, deep breaths as you can.
Hold Your Breath
Once you’ve inhaled the medication, hold your breath for at least 10 seconds, or as long as is comfortable for you. This allows the medication to reach deep into your lungs.
- Remove your inhaler from your mouth. If you can, hold your breath while gently counting from 1 to 10. This makes it possible for the drug to deeply enter your lungs.
- Lip-pucker and slowly exhale through your mouth.
- Wait one to two minutes before taking your next breath if you’re utilizing a beta-agonist, an inhalation medication that provides fast relief. Some drugs don’t require a pause between breaths.
- Reinstall the mouthpiece’s cap and make sure it is tightly fastened.
- After using your inhaler, gargle, spit and then rinse your mouth with water. Don’t ingest the water. The side effects of your drug are lessened as a result.
Keep Your Inhaler Clean
Take a look at the inhaler’s drug-spraying hole. Clean your inhaler if you notice powder in or near the hole.
- Take off the metal canister’s plastic L-shaped mouthpiece.
- Only use warm water to wash the mouthpiece and cap.
- Overnight air drying is recommended.
- Place the canister back inside in the morning, and attach the gap.
- Never rinse any other components.
Replacing Your Inhaler
Numerous inhalers have counters on the container. Aim to replenish the inhaler before you run out of medication by keeping an eye on the counter. To check if your canister is empty, never immerse it. This is unsuccessful. Bring your inhaler with you when you go to the clinic. Your service provider can ensure that you are utilizing it properly.
