Asthma Inhalers

Asthma Inhalers
By Sarah De Young

Asthma medication comes in many different forms. One of these
forms is the Inhaler. When someone suffers from asthma
they could go into an attack. This is caused when their
bronchial tubes start to close, making it hard for the person to
breath. 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 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 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 inhalers fits you needs.

It is very important to use an inhaler properly also.
The recommended technique for the meter dosed 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 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 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 attack comes on.

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

About the Author: Sarah De Young is an expert author who writes
for http://www.asthmacouncil.org/ Asthma-Inhalers.html

Source: http://www.isnare.com

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