Hi, I'm April. I have asthma just like you.
I use a metered-dose inhaler to feel better. An inhaler sends medicine to the airways in your lungs. You must use the inhaler the right way for it to work. I'll show you how.
First, wash your hands with soap and water. Then, make sure the inhaler is still good. Check its use-by date and counter. The counter shows how many doses of medicine are left. Also, check that the metal canister is put in the plastic boot the right way.
Take the cap off the inhaler mouthpiece. Shake the inhaler several times. If this is the first time you are using the inhaler, make sure it is ready to use. This is called priming. Ask your doctor to show you how. Prime the inhaler in the air away from your face.
There are two ways to use an inhaler: closed mouth and open mouth. Your doctor will tell you which to use. Here's how to do the open mouth method.
Stand or sit up straight. Take a deep breath in, tilting your head back a bit, and try to blow all the air out of your lungs. Hold the inhaler up to your mouth. Make sure the mouthpiece is two finger widths away. Always keep your inhaler at chin level.
Press down on the canister one time. At the same time, breathe in deeply and slowly for 3 to 5 seconds. That helps the medicine reach your lungs.
Move the mouthpiece away from your mouth, then close your lips. Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds, if you can. Then breathe out slowly through your mouth.
Do these steps for each puff of medicine. Wait at least 15 seconds to 1 minute before taking the next puff. Your doctor will tell you how long to wait.
If your inhaler has medicine called a steroid in it, swish, rinse, and gargle with water after using it. Spit the water out. Don't swallow it.
Clean your inhaler after using it.
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Author: Laura Semko
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