Spacer #2
I submitted a story earlier trying to decide whether to get a spacer. I have just been prescribed a maintenance inhaler. I want to make sure I get the right amount of medication. I feel sometimes it lands on roof of my mouth. I went and bought a spacer. I watched two videos - I hope I did it right. I guess since I'm used to using my inhaler without it, it was hard to tell if I was getting medicine. Is that normal when using it for the first time?
How can you tell if you used it correctly and got the meds you needed? I didn't really feel anything but my mouth did feel that strange feeling like it does before you rinse. I hope I got my dose. I definitely don't want to do it again and get a double dose. I did forget to wait a minute between puffs. Trying to concentrate on doing it right. Guess it will come natural with time. Hope so. Anybody else have a hard time knowing if you were doing it right?
It sounds like you’re really putting a lot of care into getting it right, and that’s a great thing. Starting with a spacer can feel a little unfamiliar at first, especially if you’re used to using your inhaler without one. A lot of people say it takes a bit of practice before it starts to feel more natural. That “not really feeling it” part is something others have mentioned too, so you’re definitely not alone there. If you’re ever unsure, a pharmacist or healthcare provider can also walk you through it step-by-step and help you feel more confident. (if you haven't asked either yet!) In the meantime, this article might also be helpful as you’re getting used to it: https://asthma.net/living/inhalation-technique-spacer-use . Hopefully some other community members who use a spacer can chime in and share what it felt like when they first started, too! You’re doing all the right things by paying attention and asking questions! -Kimberli (Team Member)
