Instructions for priming vary, so know how many pumps it takes to prime yours. The cap will slide away to remove the mouthpiece. Keep any instructions that come with your inhaler or print out. If you are using a standard inhaler for a corticosteroid preventer medication, also use a spacer If you are using this inhaler for a corticosteroid preventer medication, with or without a spacer, rinse your mouth with water and spit after inhaling the last dose to reduce the risk of side-effects Gargle with warm water to remove any leftover medicine from your mouth and throat. Put the inhaler in your mouth. See Figure B. An uncapped inhaler can pick up germs and debris, which you will then pump into your lungs. The more the inhaler is used and opened, the faster the oils will dissipate. Discuss with your doctor if a spacer would be beneficial or not for you. If you use an alternative type of inhaler, please visit our asthma page so we can help you ensure you are using this correctly. Nasal inhaler recipes are good for about 1-2 months, depending n how frequently it is used. Flyers for Healthcare Professionals. Get all related articles and updates directly to your inbox, subscribe to our mailing list. How to use Asthma inhaler - MDI. He is board certified in adult and pediatric allergy/immunology. After cleanings or general usage, Fajardo says to store the inhaler with the cap on, at room temperature. Hold your mouth away from the inhaler device and exhale slowly and completely (to the end of a normal breath). If you need to use a bronchodilator and a steroid inhaler, use the bronchodilator first. Do not share your spacer, inhaler medicine, or mouthpiece with anyone else. Many of us see or come across people using inhalers for several reasons, and we’re all familiar with asthma as a common health condition for which many people use inhalers. Remove the canister and clean the mouthpiece as directed above. Know whether or not you should use a spacer. Dr. Alan O. Khadavi is a Board Certified Allergist and a Pediatric Allergy Specialist based in Los Angeles, California. Visit Insider's Health Reference library for more advice. Every dollar contributed enables us to keep providing high-quality how-to help to people like you. Soon you'll be able to use your inhaler when your symptoms arise. This will depend on how often your inhaler stick is used. This video shows you how to use a metered dose inhaler (MDI) medication inhalation device with a spacer (valved holding chamber) device. 5. Good inhaler technique means the medicine goes down into your lungs where it’s needed. To use an inhaler, remove the small cap covering the mouthpiece, hold the inhaler upright, and shake it 5-10 times. You are now ready to use your aromatherapy inhaler! If you have a diskus inhaler - called a “flying saucer” inhaler - you will remove the cap by placing your thumb on the thumb grip and pressing away from you. 29 July 2020. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. If you're new to using inhalers, no matter your condition, here are some tips for how to get the most out of your inhaler and how to care for it properly, so you'll be on your way to breathing easy. Inhalers are different, so check your instructions. Replace the clear base . Dry powder inhalers. Don't put your inhaler in water to see if it's empty. of Health and Human Services, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Use-an-Inhaler-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-an-Inhaler-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Use-an-Inhaler-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid569855-v4-728px-Use-an-Inhaler-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"