Ok..it’s time we learn the “why” of using spacers, because most patients don’t use them on a regular basis. Spacers do several things for your pocketbook and your asthma:
- This spacer below can be purchased for < $10 on-line at Amazon. That’s almost better than a used toilet roll cardboard! Yes, we used to use and recommend I might add this “makeshift” spacer for patients because the others were too expensive.
- Your asthma inhaler is much more effective when you use a spacer, because the aerosol is delivered deep into the lungs where you need it–in the small airways. Make sure you don’t use a spacer with dry powder –not needed here. For example, Advair has both dry powder and aerosol; the choice is yours, but no spacer for the dry powder.
- If you’re using an aerosol or MDI, you may find that only 1 puff is needed–you save money with similar results, but check with your doctor first before making that kind of switch.
- Now you know why we harp on you to use your spacer–saves money and better results.
Go out (or order from home) and get you one today! Leave me a note on how it works. Happy breathing–Dr. Wiens