INHALERS

What are inhalers?

Inhalers are a device patients use to deliver medicine directly into the lungs.

Why are inhalers important in copd?

They are important and they help in two main ways:

Open the Airways – Since COPD can lead to narrowing of the airways from inflammation (what’s inflammation anyways?) these puffers deliver medicines to the narrowed tubes to open them up and allow air to enter more easily.

Decrease Inflammation  – Inflammation in the airways or our breathing tubes leads to swelling that causes narrowing. Narrow airways are harder to breathe through than wider or more open airways.

Examples of Inhalers are listed below!

How do we use an inhaler?

• Sit up straight
• Take the cap off
• Begin to exhale
• Place the puffer in your mouth and seal your lips around the inhaler
• Start to inhale
• Press the inhaler
• Breath in and fill your lungs then hold your breath for 5-10 seconds
• Exhale
• Wash your mouth out

Find your inhaler

Click here to be taken to a resource by the Ontario Lung Association to find your inhaler