For many with asthma, daily medication is needed to manage symptoms and prevent attacks. One commonly prescribed medication type is bronchodilators, which work to relax airway muscles and widen the lungs' air passages. Bronchodilators are most often delivered to the lungs using inhalers.
Inhalers allow medication to travel directly into the lungs where it is needed, avoiding potential side effects associated with other delivery methods. However, inhaler technique is important for the patient to receive maximum benefits from the medication. Using an asthma spacer helps improve inhaler technique and ensures more medication reaches the lungs.
What are Asthma Spacers?
Asthma spacers, also known as inhaler chambers or spacing devices, are plastic tube-like accessories that attach to metered dose inhalers (MDIs) and dry powder inhalers (DPIs). Spacers provide an extra holding chamber between the inhaler activation and inhalation by the patient. This extra time and distance allows for proper dispersion of medication particles.
Spacers work by allowing the medication to disperse and decrease in velocity away from the inhaler. The medication floats in the air inside the spacer rather than impacting the back of the throat. When inhaled through the spacer, more of the inhaled air contains medication compared to breathing directly from the inhaler.
Importance of Using Asthma Spacers
Studies have shown that using a spacer consistently can significantly improve asthma control and lung function in patients. Specifically, spacers allow for:
- Higher lung deposition of medication: Up to 90% more medication is deposited in the lungs with spacer use versus without.
- More consistent dosing: Spacers offer reproducible dosing by reducing variations in coordination when using an inhaler alone.
- Easier, less forceful inhalation: Spacers make inhalation technique less critical and stressful. Breathing through a spacer is gentler than direct inhaler use.
- Benefits for all ages: Both children and adults see lung function benefits from using a spacer regularly with asthma medications.
- Improved adherence: Patients tend to stick to their medication regimen better when a spacer makes administration easier and more comfortable.
With a spacer, the lungs receive higher and more consistent doses of asthma medications. This improves symptom control and treatment outcomes versus using an inhaler alone. Spacers are an indispensable tool for many asthma patients.
Choosing the Right Asthma Spacer
There are several types and sizes of Asthma Spacers on the market. Not all spacers are suitable for every patient or medication type. When choosing a spacer, consider:
- Age of the patient: Spacers designed for very young children have narrower pieces that reduce chances of mouthpiece obstruction.
- Inhaler compatibility: Ensure the spacer is designed specifically for use with the patient's MDI or DPI inhaler.
- Ease of cleaning: Look for spacers with simple techniques to wash components for hygiene. Avoid those with intricate pieces that are difficult to sterilize.
- Portability: Opt for a compact spacer that easily slips into handbags, backpacks, etc. for adherence on the go.
- Cost: Prescription insurance coverage varies, so consider out-of-pocket costs if price is a concern.
Collaborate with a pulmonologist or asthma educator to select the spacer brand and design optimized for your medication regimen and lifestyle needs. Proper usage relies on having the right spacer model.
Using Asthma Spacers Correctly
No matter which spacer is chosen, it is important patients learn and follow correct techniques to maximize benefit:
1. Wash hands well before use to prevent contamination.
2. Remove cap from inhaler and insert firmly into spacer mouthpiece.
3. Shake inhaler briefly according to instructions before using.
4. Place mouthpiece end of spacer between teeth or lips, forming a tight seal.
5. Press inhaler canister once to release dose into spacer.
6. Inhale slowly and deeply through spacer mouthpiece for 3-5 seconds.
7. Hold breath for 10 seconds to allow medication to reach lungs.
8. Replace cap on inhaler when fully exhaled.
9. Rinse spacer pieces with warm water and air dry after each use.
Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup of residue. Practicing proper technique leads to optimal asthma control.
Asthma spacers are an important accessory for many patients using inhaled bronchodilator medications. Spacers allow for higher lung deposition of asthma drugs, make administration less stressful, and improve adherence to treatment plans. Taking the time to choose the appropriate spacer model and learn proper usage techniques ensures maximum benefit from prescribed inhalers. When combined with a comprehensive asthma action plan, spacers can significantly enhance lung health for people with asthma.
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