How to use Ventolin inhalers
Managing asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be challenging, but knowing how to use your Ventolin inhaler correctly is key to maintaining good respiratory health. Ventolin inhalers, also known as albuterol inhalers, help open up the airways, making it easier to breathe. This guide will walk you through the proper use of Ventolin inhalers, offering practical tips to help you get the most from your medication. Whether you're new to using an inhaler or just want to improve your technique, our blog provides clear, helpful advice for all Ventolin users.
What is a Ventolin inhaler?
Firstly, let get a better understanding of what a Ventolin inhaler is. The Ventolin inhaler is a prescription inhaler used to treat asthma and/or bronchospasm for patients aged four years old and above with obstructive airway ailment. Ventolin inhalers contain a medication called salbutamol. Salbutamol is the medication that relieves the symptoms of asthma. Some of the symptoms that are relieved by salbutamol include a tight feeling in the chest, wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness.
How to use a Ventolin inhaler for the first time?
Prior to using your Ventolin inhaler for the first time, you will need to test the inhaler so that you will only obtain the correct amount of medicine you need when you use it.
To do this test you will need to remove the cap of the mouthpiece off of your inhaler and shake it very well. Then, you should spray it once into the air away from you. Make sure that you do not spray in the eyes.
Shake and spray the inhaler this way again around two to three times. This will prime the inhaler. You should always prime your inhaler when you are using it for the first time, or when you have not used it in the past 14 days.
How to use a Ventolin inhaler correctly
In order to use your Ventolin inhaler correctly you should follow this step-by-step guide:
Take the cap off the mouthpiece.
Hold the inhaler upright and shake it very well.
Exhale and tilt your head a bit.
Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and enclose your lips on the mouthpiece.
Breathe in slowly and deeply with your mouth, press down the canister firmly and let out one puff of Ventolin. Continue inhaling slowly.
Take the inhaler off your mouth; hold your breath for about five seconds. Exhale with your nose.
Place the cap back.
Should you need to take another puff, wait around 60 seconds before you repeat steps 2-7 above.
For those who have problems taking medication via release and inhalation, you should use your inhaler with an appropriate spacer. Alternatively, you can use a breath-activated device like the Accuhaler, Turbohaler, or Autohaler. These inhaler alternatives are also ideal for use by those suffering from hand arthritis and pressing the inhaler can be quite a challenge.
As mentioned, using a spacer can also work for people struggling to take their medication. The use of a spacer with your inhaler will enhance the level of medicine that will reach your airways. You should also use a spacer when you use a reliever inhaler for treating asthma attacks. It is also highly recommended for inhalers with corticosteroids as they inhibit certain side effects like oral thrush and a croaky voice.
How many times a day can you use a Ventolin inhaler?
When you are using a Ventolin inhaler, it is important that you do not overuse it. You should use Ventolin inhalers as and when you need them, using one or two puffs at a time. You should not use the inhaler more than four times in a 24-hour period. Doing this can result in some side effects.
What are the side effects of Ventolin inhalers?
As with all medications, there are some side effects to Ventolin. These are particularly prevalent if you use your inhaler more than is recommended. Some of the side effects of Ventolin inhalers include shortness of breath, dizziness, shaking and headaches.
Can I use my Ventolin inhaler whilst pregnant?
The use of Ventolin bronchodilator inhalers whilst pregnant is completely safe, and there are no effects that can be passed on to an unborn child. If you go into labour unexpectedly then you should not use your inhaler. If you are concerned about using your inhaler whilst pregnant, consider consulting your doctor.
Can I use an expired Ventolin inhaler?
The expiry date of your Ventolin inhaler should be displayed on the packaging of the inhaler. You should only use the inhaler up to the expiry date, as the effects of the medication may not be correct after the expiry date.
Ventolin inhalers are ideal for relieving the symptoms of asthma sufferers, but only when they are used correctly. Discover more asthma treatments here.
Can I get Ventolin Inhalers on subscription?
Yes! You can purchase the Ventolin inhalers that you need on a subscription from UK Meds. You can purchase either the Accuhaler or the Evohaler in different strengths, quantities, and delivery frequencies saving you time, money, and effort.
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