Let's know about correct use of Inhaler

Inhaler is a device used to treat for airway diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and it is used to deliver medicine to the airways and lungs. It helps you to breathe the medicine straight into your lungs and airways where it is needed. Good inhaler technique helps you to manage symptoms and avoid side effects of medicines.

Benefits of using correct method of an inhaler.

• Cut your risk of an asthma attack.

• Cope better with your usual asthma triggers.

• Get a good night’s sleep.

• Take part in exercise and family activities.

• Avoid side effects like oral thrush and sore throat.

Types of inhalers

According to the action method, there are 3 types of inhalers.

• Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) (With or without spacer)

• Dry powder inhaler

• Soft mist inhaler

Methods of use

Metered Dose Inhaler without a spacer

1. Remove the cap.

2. Shake it for 5 seconds in upright position.

3. Breathe out completely.

4. Put the mouthpiece into your mouth and make sure your tongue doesn’t block the opening and lips tightly close around the mouthpiece.

5. Press the top down, and breathe in until your lungs fill completely (about 4-6 seconds).

6. Hold the medicine in your lungs as long as you can (5-10 seconds is good).

7. Breathe out.

8. If you don’t get enough air in the first breath, wait 15-30 seconds and try again. Shake the canister again before the next puff.

9. Recap the mouthpiece.

If you use the metered Dose Inhaler with a spacer, connect the inhaler into the spacer after removing the cap. Then do as the above.

Dry powder inhaler

1. Remove the cap.

2. Load a capsule.

3. Breathe out slowly.

4. Put the mouthpiece between your front teeth and close your lips around it.

5. Breathe in through your mouth deeply for 2-3 seconds.

6. Remove the inhaler. Hold your breath for as long as you can (between 4-10 seconds is good).

7. Breathe out slowly.

Soft mist inhaler

1. Open the cap.

2. Breathe out slowly and fully.

3. Close your mouth around the mouthpiece. Don’t cover the air vents on the side of the device

4. Take a slow deep breath while you press the dose release button, inhale the mist.

5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds.

Get the prescribed amount of puffs

Wash your mouth after using your inhaler

Method of clean an inhaler

Clean your inhaler after use, every times you can.

• Remove the canister and cap from the mouthpiece.

• Don’t wash the canister or put it in water.

• Run warm tap water through the top and bottom of the mouthpiece for 30-60 seconds.

• Use a soft cloth to remove any medication buildup.

• Shake off the water.

• Let the mouthpiece dry completely

Ishara Jayasekara

References

• https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/medicines/i/inhaler-devices/

• https://www.healthline.com/health/copd/inhaler-nebulizer

• https://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/when-to-use-inhaler

• https://www.wikihow.com/Use-an-Inhaler