Albuterol is one of the most common medications that your doctor may give you when you have asthma. The main function of Albuterol inhalers is to relax the muscles in your airways to increase flow of oxygen into the lungs. This is one of your primary weapons against flare-ups and attacks so it is very important to have it handy at all times. Call your doctor or pharmacist for a refill if you think that your supply is running low because running out of medication when you need it the most can be very costly. Also if you feel that your medication is not working as well as it used to or if you are experiencing side effects, notify you doctor immediately.
There are times when the inhaler may not administer the correct amount of medication. Using the inhaler correctly can help you eliminate this problem. Here are some tips on using the Albuterol inhaler:
Ensure that the medicine canister is properly inserted and firmly in place. If there are difficulties in inserting the medication canister, turn to the instruction manual on the inhaler box or medicine packaging.
Shake the inhaler for about ten seconds and test spray it once or twice to prime it properly. Shaking the medication will ensure its effectiveness and spraying it a couple of times before using will clear the nozzle of any foreign object that may be present.
Depending on which position you’re more comfortable with, you can use your inhaler while sitting or standing. It is unadvisable to lie down when you have asthma attacks. Make sure that you are in an upright, or at least slightly upright, position for the medicine to quickly reach your lungs.
Place the inhaler in your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece. Actuate the device and inhale the aerosol medication. Sometimes, quick inhalation is recommended as it allows the medicine to reach the lungs and not stay in the back of your throat or mouth. Nebulizers also use albuterol medication. If using a nebulizer, the mouthpiece is often about an inch away from your mouth. Depending on the type of inhaler, you might want to use a spacer.
After inhaling the medication, hold your breath for five to ten seconds. This allows the medication to travel further into the air passages. If you need additional puffs, wait about thirty seconds before doing so again.
Replace the cap on the inhaler once treatment is finished. Also remember to wash the cap with warm water after every use. Rinse your mouth to clear any residue of the medicine that may have been left during treatment. If you see buildup of any kind inside or outside of the inhaler, dispose of immediately and get a new one.
Depending on your asthma severity and advice taken from your doctor, you may be required to take more puffs. It is important that you adhere strictly to the instructions given to you. Bronchodilators can have side effects. Not using them to be as efficient as they should leads you to use them for a longer term. Your albuterol treatment effectivity is directly proportional to how well you use it.
Johnson Star used to be an asthmatic for 20 years. For more detailed instructions and help on asthma treatment albuterol, be sure to visit http://www.17minasthmaandallergysecrets.com if you want to get rid of asthma and allergy once by subscribing to his 10-day FREE mini-ecourse immediately.
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