Goals of Therapy Asthma Action Plan Control Medications   - Corticosteroids   - Non-Steroidal Anti-      Inflammatory   - Theophylline Prevention Medications   - Leukotriene Modifiers   - Long-Acting Beta2-Agonists Rescue Medications   - Short-Acting Beta2-Agonists   - Anticholinergics Peak Flow Inhalers   - Proper Spacer Usage   - Inhalant Canister Calendar

For a version suitable for printing, click here. Spacers While Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI's) provide the quickest way for medicines to enter your lungs, often, the amount of coordination necessary can cause you, the asthmatic, to not take this medicine as efficiently as possible. That's where spacers (often called holding chambers) come in. Spacers discharge your medication into a chamber where it is held for a few seconds before and while you inhale. A spacer should be used with all inhaled corticosteroids. How to Use Your Spacer There are several types of spacers. Your doctor will recommend which, if any, is best for you. Click on one of the following for instructions on using your spacer: Inspirease - The Inspirease spacer has a reservoir bag that folds that up like an accordion when you inhale. Click the above image for video instructions.   Aerochamber - The Aerochamber has a whistle that lets you know if you are inhaling too quickly. Click the above image for video instructions.   Aerochamber with Mask - If you are using an Aerochamber with Mask, be sure that your mask has a proper fit. Click the above image for video instructions. Asthma Inhaler Spacer Instructions: Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright. Shake the inhaler. Place the inhaler into the opening or port on the spacer/holding chamber. Breathe out fully through your mouth. Place the spacer/holding chamber mouthpiece in your mouth or place the facemask tightly on your face. Keep your tongue out of the mouthpiece. Press down on the inhaler to release the medicine as you breathe in slowly through your mouth. Breathe in slowly for three to five seconds. Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow the medicine to reach deeply into your lungs. Repeat the number of puffs or sprays that your doctor has directed. Wait one minute between puffs. ^ Back to Top Things to Remember: DO NOT PUT YOUR INHALER IN WATER. Recent studies have shown no correlation between how the inhaler floats and how much medicine remains in the inhaler. Some inhalers may malfunction after being submerged. To keep track of how often to change your inhaler, see the inhalant canister calendar. Be sure to keep your spacer clean. Cleaning instructions are given in package inserts for each device. Inhale your medicine within three to four seconds of spraying it into the chamber for the best effect. For more information on using a spacer and asthma inhalers, please give us a call at 360-567-1773. Forward to Inhalant Canister Calendar » « Back to Inhalers ^ Back to Top

For Appointments: To schedule an appointment with Allergy & Asthma Center of SW Washington call: 1 (866) 206-1780 Toll Free (360) 567-1773 Contact Us By Email Our Office Location: 16821 SE McGillivray Blvd., #110, Town Ctr. Two Our Satellite Location: 971 11th Avenue, Longview, WA 98682

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