How to Use an Asthma Inhaler with a Spacer Correctly: Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step guide to using a spacer with your inhaler
Good inhaler technique is important because your asthma medication needs to reach your lungs to work effectively. A spacer, also known as a valved holding chamber, can make it easier to use a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) and can help more of the medication reach the lungs.
In this video, Sophie, pharmacist and Patient Education Manager at EUFOREA, explains why using a spacer can be helpful and provides a step-by-step guide to using your inhaler with a spacer.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- Why correct inhaler technique is important for delivering medication to your lungs
- How a spacer can make it easier to use a pressurised metered-dose inhaler
- How a spacer can help medication move past the mouth and throat and reach the lungs
- How to use the single-breath technique with a spacer
- How to use the multiple-breath (tidal breathing) technique with a spacer
- How to clean and maintain your spacer correctly
- Why rinsing your mouth and throat after using certain asthma medications can help reduce the risk of side effects
Why use a spacer?
Coordinating the timing of pressing an inhaler and breathing in can sometimes be difficult. A spacer can make this process easier by temporarily holding the medication released from the inhaler, giving you more time to breathe it into your lungs.
Using a spacer correctly can also help reduce the amount of medication that remains in your mouth and throat.
Watch the video below for a step-by-step demonstration of how to use your asthma inhaler with a spacer.
Which breathing technique should I use?
Two techniques may be used with a spacer:
- Single-breath technique: After releasing the medication into the spacer, take one slow, deep breath and hold your breath as instructed.
- Multiple-breath technique: After releasing the medication into the spacer, breathe in and out slowly through the spacer for several breaths.
Your healthcare professional can show you which technique is appropriate for your specific inhaler and spacer.
Keeping your spacer clean
Regular cleaning and correct maintenance are important to keep your spacer working properly and hygienically. Always follow the cleaning and care instructions provided with your specific device.
If your asthma medication contains an inhaled corticosteroid, your healthcare professional may also recommend rinsing your mouth and throat after use to help reduce the risk of local side effects.
Please note: This video is for educational purposes and does not replace the instructions provided with your specific inhaler or spacer, or advice from your healthcare professional.
