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Asthma : In Depth - Using Medication and In...

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How to Properly Manage Medical Devices

Many people with chronic illnesses depend on elaborate medical devices, such as cardiac pacemakers or blood-glucose monitors for their health and well-being. Countless others help their loved ones, young or old, deal with an oxygen machine, asthma medication inhaler or other device. No matter how sophisticated or simple the piece of medical equipment is, it's crucial to use and maintain it properly.

Is My Asthma Medicine Working?

To make sure that you are getting the most benefit from your asthma medicines, here are questions to ask yourself.

Asthma Medications and Emotional Side Effects

Although medications can successfully treat asthma symptoms, they may also have side effects that leave you feeling jittery.

How Asthma Controller Medicines Compare

The newest drugs to join the asthma controller lineup are called leukotriene modifiers.

Oral Health and Asthma

If you have asthma, does your dentist know? This is important for good oral health, especially if you use a corticosteroid inhaler.

Using Medication and Inhalers

Asthma Medications

Your health care provider may prescribe asthma medications for you. They may include quick-relief medications and long-term control medications. Know the names of your medications. Also know how each one works and when to use it.

Using an Inhaler without a Spacer

An inhaler is a pressurized sprayer that delivers a measured amount of medication. Follow these steps if you're using an inhaler without a spacer.

Using an Inhaler with a Spacer

To control asthma, you need to use your medications the right way. Some medications are inhaled using a device called a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Metered-dose inhalers use a fine spray to dispense medication. You may be asked to use a spacer (holding tube) with your inhaler. The spacer helps make sure all the medication you need goes into your lungs. Follow these steps.

Using Dry-Powder Inhalers (DPIs)

Dry-powder inhalers use tiny grains of powder to dispense medication. These inhalers don't require spacers. They often have counters that track how many doses you use. Keep in mind that dry-powder inhalers don't all work the same way. So be sure you know how to use yours properly.

Caring for Your Inhaler