Asthma Inhalers

Asthma medication comes in many different forms. One of these forms is the Asthma Inhaler. When someone suffers from asthma they could go into an asthma attack. This is caused when their bronchial tubes start to close, making it hard for the person to breath. Asthma Inhalers such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids can help reopen the tubes and help the person breath properly again.

First is the bronchodilators, this type of asthma inhaler includes metered-dosed brands such as albuterol, pirbuterol, and advair. A bronchodilator relaxes the bronchial muscles so they will open back up. An albuterol or pirbuterol inhaler is used for fast action relief. Doctors recommend using this before and during physical activity to prevent an attack, as well as before bed and when you wake up.

As a dry powder form the Corticosteroid can be inhaled more quickly then the Bronchodilator and will help with the bronchial tubes from constricting again. The corticosteroid is a longer acting asthma inhaler then the bronchodilator. Typically this asthma inhaler is used once in the morning and the evening along with the bronchodilator. The use of the corticosteroid will help you breath easier thoughout the day. It is always best to consult a doctor to see what asthma inhalers fits you needs.

It is very important to use an asthma inhaler properly also. The recommended technique for the meter dosed asthma inhaler (which is also known as Aerosol) is as follows:

1. Shake well. Be sure to shake the inhaler several times before each use

2. Do not lie down; stand with your head up straight

3. Exhale as much as possible until you feel you have no more air inside your lungs then insert the asthma inhalers mouthpiece into your mouth sealing it with your lips

4. After you have sealed the mouthpiece start to breathe in and simultaneously press down one time and only one time on the canister to release a single dose

5. Pull the device out of your mouth and continue to try and breathe through your open mouth for four to five seconds until your lungs are full of air

6. After your lungs are full of air hold your breath for at least ten seconds

7. Exhale

If after step seven you still are not breathing properly repeat steps one-seven.

Incorrect asthma inhalers technique can cause poor delivery of your medication to the lungs. This most likely will occur if your delivery is late when inhaling and pressing once on the canister, a released puff half way through the process will be lost. It is important that you know how to use the asthma inhaler before leaving the doctor office to help with asthma control when an asthma attack comes on.

Asthma is a serious condition especially if not properly cared for. But with the help of good ashtma control, asthma medicine, and asthma inhalers a person can lead a normal, full, happy long life.

By: Sarah De Young