Using an inhaler the right way matters. Bad technique means less medicine in your lungs and more symptoms. Below are clear, practical steps for common inhalers - MDI (metered-dose), DPI (dry powder) and soft-mist - and quick fixes you can try today.
For an MDI (puff inhaler): shake the canister for five seconds, breathe out fully, put the mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips, start a slow deep breath then press the canister once, keep breathing in slowly for five to six seconds, hold your breath for at least five seconds, then breathe out gently. If you need a second puff, wait about 30 seconds and repeat. If coordination is hard, use a spacer; it makes timing easier and gets more drug to your lungs.
For a DPI (disk or capsule inhaler): do not shake. Exhale away from the device, load a dose per device instructions, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, inhale fast and strong for two to three seconds, remove the inhaler and hold your breath for five to ten seconds. DPIs need a quick, forceful breath to pull the powder into your airways. If you can't inhale sharply, ask about switching devices.
Always check the dose counter before use. If an inhaler has no counter, track doses in a diary. Prime new MDIs per the leaflet. Don’t exhale into a DPI or it will clog. Avoid breathing out through the mouthpiece. Rinsing your mouth after steroid inhalers reduces thrush risk. Clean mouthpieces weekly and let them dry before use.
Children and older adults often need a spacer or a mask. Spacers cut down coordination needs and increase medication delivery. For kids, practice taking a puff with an empty spacer so they get used to mouth placement and hold time. Caregivers should check technique every few months and when symptoms change.
Priming and dose counting matter. To prime an MDI, spray one or two puffs into the air before first use or after long storage. For DPIs, follow the device steps exactly. Use the dose counter to avoid surprise empty cans. When traveling, keep inhalers in carry-on and avoid extreme temperatures. If your rescue inhaler feels empty sooner than expected, have a backup and review technique. If side effects like tremor or fast heartbeat appear, tell your doctor - dose or device may need changing. Practice daily before flare-ups.
How do you know your technique works? Fewer rescue puffs, better peak flow readings and fewer symptoms are good signs. Ask your nurse or pharmacist to watch you use the inhaler once; a quick correction can make a big difference. Bring your inhaler to appointments and ask for hands-on coaching.
Finally, keep expired inhalers off your shelf. Store them away from heat and check the expiration date. If your breathing is worse despite good technique, call your clinician - your treatment may need adjusting. Small changes in how you inhale can lead to big improvements in control.
