Controlling Asthma

Some of the medications use to treat asthma are delivered to the lungs via a metered-dose inhaler — a small pressurized container that releases a specific amount of medication through the mouth to the lungs. In order to be effective, the aerosolized particles released by the inhaler need to travel throughout the lungs. Incorrect usage of an inhaler (e.g. to puff and then inhale) causes suboptimal treatment in which most of the particles just stay in the mouth. Using a spacer device with an inhaler and following the method below can help to ensure maximum effectiveness of the medication.

First, exhale completely. Then as you count from one to four over 4-5 seconds, do the following:

If you have been prescribed more than one puff, you may repeat the steps after a few normal breaths.

A peak flow meter is a simple, portable and inexpensive device which measures air flow into the lungs, or peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). If used appropriately, a peak flow meter can be a valuable tool to:

• Identify allergens
• Determine the severity of asthma
• Check the response to treatment during an acute asthma episode
• Monitor progress in treatment of chronic asthma and provide objective information for any possible adjustments in therapy
• Detect an often unrecognized worsening in lung function and thereby avoid a possible serious flare up in asthma with early intervention
• Diagnose exercise-induced asthma.

Proper training is necessary for home peak flow monitoring, It is essential to learn from a skilled professional how to properly use the peak flow meter and what to do if the peak flow readings fall. According to the Statement on Technical Standards for Peak Flow Meters, the 10 steps toward an acceptable peak expiratory flow reading include:

1. Nose clips are unnecessary
2. Make sure the device reads zero or is at base level
3. Stand up (unless disabled, in which case the position should be the same for all maneuvers)
4. Take in a deep breath as far as possible
5. Place the meter in your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece
6. Blow out as hard and as fast as possible (one to two seconds)
7. Do not cough or let the tongue block the mouthpiece
8. Write down the value obtained
9. Repeat the process two additional times
10. 10. Record the highest of the three numbers obtained and record in your diary

Back to Prevention and Care

http://www.savvyHEALTH.com/

All contents copyright © 1999-2024 savvyHEALTH, Inc. All rights reserved.

This internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use.