How to Use an Inhaler

An inhaler is prescribed by doctors to patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma or many other types of respiratory conditions. The inhaler, when pressed, releases a mist of medication into your lungs to instantly help relieve the symptoms. To receive the best results from your metered-dose inhaler, you should follow the proper method of using it. Here is how to use an inhaler properly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Metered-dose Inhaler

1. Always hold the inhaler in an upright position when you are going to use it.
2. Remove the inhaler's cap.
3. Shake the inhaler.
4. Slightly tilt your head back and breathe out through your mouth. Tilting your head helps to open up your breathing passage.
5. Place the inhaler's mouthpiece between your lips and make sure your tongue is away from the mouthpiece.
6. Slowly start to inhale as you press the inhaler's cartridge.
7. Continue breathing in for an additional five seconds. Then hold your breath for 10 seconds.
8. If your prescribed dose is two puffs, then wait one minute before inhaling the second puff. When the minute is up, follow the same procedure for the second inhalation.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep track of how many times you have used your inhaler so you can have it refilled before you run out of medicine. You can do this by keeping track of how many times a day you use the inhaler against how many doses the inhaler supplies.
• Follow your prescribed directions
• Any questions about your prescription should referred to your doctor
• Do not let anyone else use your inhaler