Asthma inhaler check
The National Asthma Council says incorrect technique with inhaled medicines is very common among people with asthma. Using an inhaler properly helps the medicine work and can reduce the risk of side effects, and the steps differ from one device to the next.
That is why the Council advises that all adults and children need careful training in inhaler technique from a doctor, nurse, asthma educator or pharmacist. Bring your inhalers and spacer to the counter and ask a pharmacist to watch you take a practice puff. If you use a preventer containing an inhaled corticosteroid, the Council also recommends rinsing your mouth with water and spitting after each dose, where possible.
How to use a spacer
A spacer is a tube or chamber that fits onto a puffer. According to the Council's spacer use and care guide, it helps more medicine reach your lungs, with less left in your mouth and throat, and it makes pressing and breathing in easier to coordinate. The guide lists these general steps, and your device's own instructions come first:
- Hold the puffer upright and shake it, if your puffer needs shaking, then fit it into the spacer.
- Place the mouthpiece between your teeth without biting and seal your lips around it.
- Keep the spacer level, breathe out gently and press the canister firmly once.
- Straight away, breathe in and out normally through the spacer for 4 breaths.
Children younger than 4, and anyone who cannot seal their lips around the mouthpiece, should use a small spacer with a tightly fitting face mask.
Spacer care: wash it weekly and after a cold, in warm water with dishwashing liquid, and let it air dry without rinsing or towelling. The Council suggests replacing your spacer after 12 months of use and having a pharmacist, nurse or asthma educator check it every 6 to 12 months.
Your asthma action plan
An asthma action plan is a written set of instructions made with your doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist practitioner. It lists your usual medicines and doses, what to do when asthma worsens, and when to seek medical help. The Council's advice is that everyone with asthma should have an action plan, checked and updated at least once a year, so bring yours whenever you see your GP.
Asthma management in Abermain with your GP
The Council recommends a yearly asthma review with your doctor. Book one sooner if you regularly wake with symptoms or need your reliever more than 2 to 3 times a week, other than before exercise. Do not change your asthma medicines without speaking to your doctor first.
Emergency: call 000 straight away if symptoms get worse very quickly, breathing is severely short, someone cannot speak comfortably, their lips look blue or the reliever gives little or no relief. Tell the operator you are dealing with an asthma emergency. See the Council's asthma first aid steps.
Inhaler and spacer questions
Is a puffer and spacer as good as a nebuliser?
Yes, for salbutamol. The Council states that a puffer with a spacer is at least as effective as a nebuliser for adults and children, even during flare-ups.
Do cardboard spacers need cleaning?
No. Disposable cardboard spacers do not need to be primed or cleaned, according to the same spacer care guidance.
Asthma support is part of our wider medication management services, alongside reviews of all the medicines you take.
Bring your puffer in for a check
Drop in to 193 Cessnock Road with your inhaler and spacer, and a pharmacist will look at how you use them.