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Are you using your inhaler the wrong way? Experts explain
USA Today • • health
Key Points:
- Asthma affects 8% of Americans and causes 9 to 11 deaths daily, with many patients (60-80%) not using inhalers correctly, according to experts.
- Proper inhaler use involves using a spacer, fully exhaling before inhaling medication slowly, holding the breath afterward, and following prescribed puff counts.
- Poor inhaler technique can lead to medication depositing in the mouth or vocal cords, causing side effects like thrush or hoarseness, highlighting the need for proper instruction.
- There are different types of inhalers: rescue inhalers for immediate relief and maintenance inhalers for daily control, with some newer approaches allowing maintenance meds to be used as needed.
- Patients should consult their healthcare providers for personalized inhaler instructions and recommendations to effectively manage asthma.
