How to Care For and Remember Your Asthma Inhaler
What Are Inhalers, and When To Use Them
Inhalers are portable and hand-held devices used to deliver medications to the lungs to treat asthma. The medication helps relax airways, thus letting you breathe more easily. An asthma doctor may recommend the use of inhalers if you have the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in your chest
- Wheezing or coughing
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Allergic reactions to pollen, pets, and dust mites
8 Care Tips for Your Inhaler
1. Your inhaler should be cleaned regularly to avoid the buildup of medication. Cleaning your inhaler depends on the type you use: metered dose, dry powder, and soft mist inhalers.
2. Do not wash dry powder inhalers with soap and water. Instead, use a dry piece of cloth to clean them.
3. For soft mist inhalers, clean regularly using a clean damp cloth.
4. Metered dose inhalers should never be immersed in water. Instead, separate the canister from the mouthpiece, and clean it with warm water.
5. Ensure that the cap of your inhaler is always on when you are not using it. This prevents the buildup of dust and debris.
6. Store your inhaler at room temperature. Remember, extreme temperatures can affect the medication in your inhaler.
7. Replace your inhaler before you run out of medication on your canister. Always check the counter on the mouthpiece that tracks how long you have to use your inhaler.
8. Never share your inhaler with anyone.
Healthy Inhaler Habits To Adopt
Although inhalers are a blessing to asthma patients, it's not uncommon to unintentionally misuse the device. Below are some good inhaler habits to adopt.
- Two is better than one; have a spare inhaler, one to use when at home and another for your bag, purse, backpack, etc.
- Keep reminders on your phone to remind you when to take your medication.
- Take the prescribed asthma medication punctually and shake well before use.
- Keep inhalers out of reach for both children and pets.
- One way to ensure you do not forget your inhaler is to connect two habits, for instance, brushing your teeth and then taking a puff from your inhaler.
- After using your inhaler, rinse your mouth with water and spit out.
Contact The Allergy Group Now
At The Allergy Group, we make it easier to find a certified allergist to perform allergy testing to determine the best inhaler for you. Reach out to our offices in Boise, Nampa, East Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and Caldwell for more professional advice and proper inhaler techniques.