How to avoid an attack
Taking your asthma treatment as prescribed by your doctor is important. This will help prevent asthma
attacks.
Inhalers (also called puffers)
There are two types of inhalers:
Metered dose inhalers (MDI) and dry
powder inhalers (DPI).
• Metered Dose Inhalers: Use an
aerosol canister inserted into a
plastic mouthpiece to deliver a
short burst of medicine.
• Dry Powder Inhalers: Deliver
medicine as a dry powder using a
special inhaler.
Proper use of an inhaler
For inhalers to work well, you must
use them correctly. But more than
half of all people who use inhalers
incorrectly. Ask your doctor or
nurse to watch you and check your
technique.
How to use an inhaler
If you are still sruggling to use your
inhaler ask your chemist or doctor
to recommend a spacer or holding
chamber. This device attaches to
the inhaler to make it easier to use
and to help more medicine reach
the lungs. Everyone can benefit
from using a spacer or holding
chamber, especially children. Or ask
about using a 'breath-actuated'
inhaler, which automatically
releases medicine when you inhale.
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