How does spacer work

Many adults and children are unable to use their metered dose inhaler effectively. The spacer reduces the need for perfect technique. Spacers are designed to deliver up to twice the medication of an inhaler alone. Less medicine gets left in the mouth and throat, which reduces the side effects of hoarseness or thrush in your mouth from preventer medicine. A spacer can help when you are short of breath and an inhaler by itself is difficult to use.

A spacer is a smaller, convenient alternative to a nebuliser. You can breathe in and out with the spacer still in your mouth as most spacers have small vents to allow your breath to escape rather than going back into the spacer.

Using a spacer with a mask can be helpful for small children who struggle to take the breaths required when using a traditional spacer. Masks are commonly used for babies and infants who cannot seal their lips around the mouthpiece.

Most children should be able to use the spacer without a mask by the age of four years. This reduces the electrostatic charge so that the medicine does not stick to the sides of the spacer.

Check your spacer regularly for cracks. If used often, your spacer may need to be replaced every 12 months. What is a spacer? How to use Tips Benefits Summary An inhaler works most effectively when the user manages to deliver their medication in a slow, controlled fashion. Share on Pinterest Using a spacer can help deliver medicine from an inhaler more effectively.

How to use a spacer. Benefits of using a spacer. Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. What are the best types of exercise for asthma? Medically reviewed by Shilpa Amin, M.

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