Breathing Easier: Using an Asthma Inhaler
For millions of people who have to fight to breathe, it can be a constraint on everyday life, including physical activity. Simple things such as weather or stress can also trigger an attack. Luckily, there are various ways to control your asthma and live a normal life like using an asthma inhaler.
An asthma inhaler can save your life when an attack hits. Here are some different types of inhalers and what they can do for your asthma:
Bronchodilators
This type of asthma inhaler includes metered-dosed brands such as albuterol pirbuterol, and advair. When you have an asthma attack, the muscles in your bronchial tubes constrict, making it hard to breathe. 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.
Corticosteroids
A corticosteroid is a type of asthma inhaler that is used for long- term relief of asthma. While a bronchodilator opens the bronchial tubes, a corticosteroid such as flovent will keep them from constricting again. This inhaler usually comes in a dry powder form, and can be inhaled more rapidly than a metered dose inhaler. Your doctor will recommend you use both the bronchodilator and corticosteroid once in the morning and once at night for easier breathing.
Using Your Inhaler
It’s best to know how to properly use your asthma inhaler should an asthma attack occur. If you are feeling out of breath, reach for your bronchodilator. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and at the same time you are pushing down on the tube, breath in as quickly as you can. Hold your breath for a few seconds, making sure the medicine gets in your lungs, and let out a large breath of air. Within a minute or so, you should begin to feel relaxed, and are able to breathe easier. If required, use your corticosteroid inhaler as well for added relief.
Breathing is a mechanism that is required to keep humans alive. Some of us have to work harder to breathe, but it shouldn’t be a hassle. If you have asthma, knowing what types of inhalers to use and how to use them is essential. Don’t let asthma control your life; learn how to control your asthma.
