How to use an inhaler with a spacer?

What is a Spacer?

A spacer is an empty tube usually made of plastic with a mouthpiece on one end. The opposite end can be used to connect an inhaler to the device. The inhaler releases the medication in the form of puffs into the air and the spacer allows the user to breathe it in at their convenient speed.

The time it takes for the medicine to enter the lungs is extended while using a spacer. It also allows a person to take more time to inhale the medication, allowing it to reach the lungs more effectively and comfortably.

In addition, the spacer concentrates the medication inside a tube, preventing it from escaping into the atmosphere.

Spacers are especially useful for younger children or those who are just beginning to use an inhaler.

How to use an inhaler with a spacer?

Before using an inhaler with or without a spacer, always consult your doctor and understand the procedure by a professional.

The steps for utilizing most inhalers and spacers are as follows:

• Inspect the inhaler, spacer, and mouthpiece for any dirt or debris, as well as ensure that there is enough medicine left.
• Before and throughout the delivery of the medicine, sit or stand with your back straight and your head in a normal stable position – not too far backward or forward.
• Exhale and let all the air from your lungs out.
• Spray one puff of medicine into your mouth and inhale steadily for 3–5 seconds, closing your mouth tightly around the inhaler to prevent air from escaping. You’re breathing in too quickly if you hear a whistling noise as you inhale.
• Count in your mind or use a timer on your watch or phone to hold your breath for 10 seconds.
• Exhale after removing the inhaler from your mouth.
• Repeat the steps with as many puffs as your doctor recommends. If you’re using albuterol inhalers like Ventolin or ProAir, wait roughly 1 minute between puffs.
• If you use an inhalation corticosteroid, rinse your mouth with water. This lowers your chances of getting an oral infection.

After use, the spacer should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The rubber end of the spacer is normally removed and the remaining parts are washed in warm, soapy water. Allow the spacer to air dry completely after rinsing.

Advantages of using a Spacer

The following are some of the advantages of utilizing a spacer with an inhaler:

1. A spacer grants the patient more time and ease to use an inhaler. When pressing the inhaler and breathing in the medication, it reduces the requirement for coordination.
2. Spacers lengthen the time it takes for the inhaler to deliver medication. This implies the medicine is absorbed more slowly and smoothly by the lungs.
3. Because it works more efficiently by delivering medicine directly to your lungs, you may waste less medicine.
4. A higher concentration of medication is inhaled into the lungs.
5. Taking a spacer minimizes the chance of adverse effects like oral thrush, which can develop when using a corticosteroid inhaler.