Using Ventolin Inhalers ꟷ A Guide

Asthma 

Asthma is a respiratory condition in which symptoms are triggered by exposure to allergens. People with the condition often exhibit symptoms when exposed to such allergens as moulds, pollens, cockroaches, dust mites, feathers or hair from pets and even animal dander.

The condition can develop due to a variety of causes. However, there are available treatments these days which one can use to not only ease the symptom but can also prevent the recurrence of asthma attacks. Among the most common potential causes of asthma along with their respective treatments are:

Dust mites and dust 

A good way to avoid these allergens is to make sure that your pillows and mattresses are kept in airtight boxes or receptacles. Tape over the entire length of the container too. Asthmatic patients can highly benefit from memory foam mattresses since they are designed to prevent the penetration of dust mites.

Also, make it a habit to wash your beddings once every week. Use hot water with temperatures of no less than 10 degrees for the best result.

Indoor mould 

Moulds can be a problem especially when the weather gets hot and the humidity rises. They tend to multiply faster in this type of weather condition. Take the necessary steps to ensure that your interiors are mould free. This means checking the bathroom, basement and kitchen. See to it that these areas enjoy excellent air circulation and ventilation. More importantly, keep them clean at all times. Investingin a dehumidifier would do wonders in keeping these parts of your home mould free.

Cockroaches 

One very useful way of keeping cockroaches at bay from your residence is limiting food spread inside and around your home. Food should be a no-no in the bedrooms. Keep the lid on your trash bins to not give these roaches a chance to feed and multiply.

Leftover foods should be kept inside containers. Never leave any food unopened in your kitchen. Try to keep food inside your fridge. Clean your countertops at least on a weekly basis. 

The kitchen floors need to be mopped at the same frequency. Cockroaches are usually attracted to moist places or areas where there is water so make sure to get rid of these things. If you suspect that there is a cockroach infestation in your home, then use pesticides to kill them. Make sure you get their eggs as well.

Animal dander/ pet hairs 

It is always best to designate a specific place in your home where the pets can stay. For instance, your garage or if they are staying outdoors, then in their designated cat or dog house. It is always best to not let them inside your bedroom. Vacuuming and cleaning your home on the regular can help with pet hairs and animal dander. Make sure to pay close attention to our floors, carpets, and furniture pieces.

Asthma inhalers & treatments 

Medications for asthma are generally available via prescription. Inhalers are among the most common and most effective asthma treatments out there. Asthmatic patients can now get access to a wide range of devices that lets them get asthma medicine straight to the lungs, which is necessary for quick relief. These days one of the most popularly used drugs for asthma is the pMDI, short for pressurized metered-dose inhalers.

Inside the inhaler is an asthmatic drug that is in the form of mist. Pressing the canister of the inhaler allows the mist to be released. It is then inhaled so the drug can be delivered straight into the airways. Proper use of inhalers is essential to ensure that you are getting the right treatment and at the right dosage. The Ventolin Inhaler is one of the most commonly used inhalers for asthmatic patients these days.

Ventolin Inhaler 

This prescription inhaler medication is used in treating patients experiencing bronchospasm and/or asthma. Ideal for those aged 4 and up, it is most effective at relieving symptoms of ailments that cause obstructions in the airway.

Priming the inhaler 

Before using the Ventolin inhaler, see to it first that you test it to ensure that it will release the right amount of medicine every time it is used.

Start by removing the cap from the inhaler’s mouthpiece. Shake the inhaler well. With the inhaler positioned away from you, spray it once while making sure that you avoid your eyes.

Shake it again and spray it about twice or thrice like this to make sure that it is properly primed. In addition, priming is not only advised for inhalers that are being used for the first time. If you have not used yours for 14 days or more, then make sure that you prime it again before using it.

Using the Ventolin Inhalerꟷ A step by step guide 

Below are detailed instructions on properly using your Ventolin inhaler.

  1.       Remove the cap from the inhaler’s mouthpiece.
  2.       While holding the inhaler upright, start shaking it.
  3.       Breathe out and then slightly tilt your head.
  4.       Position the mouthpiece in your mouth. Enclose the mouthpiece with your lips.
  5.       Using your mouth, try to breathe in deeply and slowly. Then firmly press down on the canister and allow a single puff of Ventolin out. Continue breathing in deeply and slowly.
  6.       Remove the inhaler from your mouth. Do not breathe for at least the next 5 seconds. Then exhale through your nose.
  7.       Reposition the cap.  

If you feel like needing another puff, always make sure to wait for at least 60 seconds before doing repeating steps 2 to 7.

People who have issues taking medication release, as well as inhalation, should use the inhaler with a proper spacer. Another option is to use devices that are breathe-activated such as Autohaler, Turbuhaler or Accuhaler. This is especially useful for those that suffer from arthritis in their hands as this would make it difficult for them to properly press down the inhaler.

Using spacers with inhalers is ideal for enhancing the amount of medicine that will be delivered to the airways. A spacer is most appropriate when using reliever inhalers for asthma attacks. The same is true if you’re using inhalers that contain corticosteroids as they prevent such side effects as a croaky voice or oral thrush.