What is a Inhaler?
Rescue inhaler, also known as a reliever inhaler or quick relief inhaler, is a hand-held device that delivers medication to the lungs to provide quick and temporary relief from asthma or COPD symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath. Inhalers work quickly to relax the muscles in the airways and open up breathing passages.
How Inhalers Work
Inhalers contain fast-acting bronchodilator medications that work within minutes to reverse bronchospasm, the tightening and narrowing of the airways. Common medications found in inhalers include albuterol and levalbuterol. When inhaled, these medications bind to beta-2 receptors located in muscle tissues surrounding the lungs' airways. Rescue Inhaler prompts the muscles to relax, allowing the airways to open wider for easier breathing. The relief generally lasts for 3 to 6 hours.
How to Use a Inhaler
It's important to use a inhaler correctly in order to get the fast relief it provides. Here are the basic steps:
1. Remove the inhaler cap and shake well before each use. This ensures an even distribution of the medication.
2. Stand or sit up straight to make breathing easier. Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out fully.
3. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth without biting it and form a good seal around it with your lips.
4. As you start to breathe in through your mouth, press down on the canister to release a puff of the medication.
5. Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds if possible to allow the medication to fully reach your lungs.
6. Breathe out slowly through your mouth and repeat steps 3-5 for the prescribed number of puffs.
7. Rinse your mouth with water after use to help reduce any side effects like oral thrush.
When to Use a Inhaler
Inhalers are intended for quick relief of sudden symptoms or if regular maintenance treatment is not adequately controlling asthma or COPD symptoms. Common situations where a inhaler should be used include:
- During or after physical activity or exercise when symptoms occur
- Exposure to known triggers such as allergens, smoke, air pollution, extreme temperatures or emotions
- Waking up at night with symptoms.
- Prior to an asthma exacerbation or attack.
- When regular controller medications are not providing sufficient control of symptoms.
It's important not to rely solely on inhalers for long-term symptom management. Frequent or daily use may indicate inadequate control and the need to see a doctor to re-evaluate treatment. Overuse can also have side effects like increased heart rate.
Potential Side Effects of Inhalers
While inhalers provide fast relief that is essential for managing asthma and COPD, they can cause some potential side effects in some people. Common ones include:
- Increased heart rate - Medications like albuterol are designed to stimulate beta receptors involved in heart functions and dilation of airways. This can result in palpitations, chest tightness or pounding heartbeat.
- Nervousness or shakiness - Also related to the stimulant effect on beta receptors, some people experience feelings of anxiety, restlessness or tremors.
- Cough - The bronchodilator medication may cause irritation when it first comes into contact with the airways, resulting in a cough.
- Headache - Stimulation of the central nervous system can lead to headaches in some individuals.
- Oral thrush - Long-term use increases the risk of a yeast infection in the mouth from decreased immune function in the oral cavity. Rinsing the mouth after use can help reduce this risk.
- Paradoxical bronchospasm - In rare cases, some people experience a worsening of symptoms like coughing, wheezing or chest tightness within a few minutes of using the inhaler. This is seen more often in children.
When to See a Doctor
While inhalers themselves do not generally require visiting the doctor for each refill, there are a few situations where a medical consultation is advised:
- Symptoms are not improving with the use of a inhaler. This could indicate worsening asthma or COPD requiring treatment changes.
- Using a inhaler more than 2 times per week on a regular basis. Overreliance on a quick relief inhaler may mean the underlying condition needs better control.
- Experiencing bothersome or unusual side effects from the rescue medication. The doctor can determine if a different reliever medication may be better tolerated.
- Pregnancy. Asthma medications are generally considered safe during pregnancy with doctor guidance on the proper treatment plan.
Proper use and monitoring of inhaler use plays an important role in the overall management of asthma and COPD. Consulting with your doctor is key to receiving the right treatment guidance regarding these essential quick relief devices.
rescue inhalers serve as lifelines for individuals managing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, providing rapid relief during flare-ups or emergencies. These portable devices deliver bronchodilators directly to the lungs, quickly alleviating symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing. By restoring airflow and improving oxygenation, inhalers enable individuals to regain control over their breathing and carry on with daily activities, underscoring their critical importance in respiratory care.
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About Author:
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)
