How to Use an Inhaler Correctly



Using an inhaler correctly is essential for getting the most out of your medication. Inhalers are a common treatment for asthma and other respiratory conditions, and proper technique is important to ensure that the medicine reaches your lungs. To use an inhaler correctly, follow these steps:

1. Shake the inhaler: Before using your inhaler, be sure to shake it vigorously. This will help mix the medication so that it can be evenly dispersed when you inhale it.

2. Remove the cap: Take off the protective cap from your inhaler before use to ensure that you get a full dose of medicine with each puff.

3. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth: Hold the inhaler upright with one hand and place the mouthpiece between your teeth and lips, making sure to keep your tongue away from it so as not to block airflow.

4. Exhale completely: Take a deep breath in through your nose and then exhale completely through your mouth before taking a puff from your inhaler (this will help ensure that all of the medicine reaches its intended destination).

5. Take a slow, steady breath in: As you take a slow, steady breath in through your mouth while pressing down on top of the canister with one finger (or two fingers if instructed by doctor), continue breathing normally until all of medicine has been released into lungs (this process should take about 5-10 seconds).

6. Hold breath for 10 seconds: After taking a puff from your inhaler, hold your breath for 10 seconds before exhaling slowly through pursed lips (this will help ensure that all of medication is absorbed into lungs).

7 Cleaning/Storage Instructions: After each use be sure to rinse out any remaining medication inside of mouthpiece with warm water and then replace protective cap back onto device before storing away in cool dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources (such as radiators or stoves). Additionally, check expiration date on bottom of canister regularly – if expired discard immediately per manufacturer instructions and consult doctor about replacement device/medication options if needed

Tags:

. Inhaler, Medication, Asthma, Respiratory Conditions, Shake, Remove Cap, Mouthpiece, Exhale Completely, Breath In Slowly and Steadily, Hold Breath for 10 Seconds, Cleaning/Storage Instructions,

Topics