Asthma Tips – 2 things to help you avoid hospital

 

Prompted by a recent medical journal study  in the use of inhalers, you may be interested to learn that the following two things if done well, may help you avoid the hospital emergency room:

• Using correct inhaler technique
• Medication compliance

Using correct inhaler technique

Single Breathe Technique – for using a spacer

When using the single breathe technique with a MDI (Metered Dose Inhaler – or “puffer”) the activation of the device should be done whilst breathing in deeply and slowly and continue until total lung capacity,  inhaling through your mouth (not through the nose) then hold breath for 10 seconds.

Shake the puffer before using each time
Place the puffer into the spacer
Press the puffer once
Take one breath in
Hold breath for up to 10 seconds

Repeat if needed as per your asthma plan

Videos demonstrating this technique are available at both Asthma UK and Asthma Australia.

In a recent study (noted below), half of the people involved didn’t hold their breath, else waited a maximum of 2-3 seconds.

Four Breathe Technique – for using a spacer

As well as the “deep breath technique” noted above.  There is also another technique called the “four breath technique”.  This technique is used by children or in an emergency. 

Shake the puffer before using each time
Place the puffer into the spacer
Press the puffer once
Take four normal breaths in and out

Repeat if needed as per your asthma plan

Asthma Australia have detailed information about using spacers as well as techniques with instructional videos.  

In the rush to get medication into the airways, if the inhaler isn’t used correctly – the prescribed dosage may not fully find it’s way to the small airways. To get “relief” from the asthma event, you would therefore, need to use more.

The study suggests that we can correct the misuse of inhalers by following instructions given by health professionals.

Again, Asthma Australia have created videos to show you, as well as step by step instructions on the use of a puffer.

Medication compliance

When talking to you doctor about medications, repeat back what you have heard – make sure you understand what you need to do each day.  If you feel you can not follow these instructions, be honest and discuss it whilst with the doctor.  Your doctor may be able to suggest another approach.

Find a doctor you can be honest with, that you feel comfortable with visiting regularly.