1. Relieving Occasional Shortness of Breath
If you have very mild asthma that is usually allergy- or environment-related, your doctor may prescribe a bronchodilator on an as-needed basis only. Short-acting beta-2 agonists are used for short-term care. You can alleviate tightness in the chest or inefficient inhalation in a few seconds or minutes with one or two puffs on these rescue inhalers.
Inhalers are usually shaken first and may need to be primed, or discharged, a couple times before first use. To use the inhaler, you exhale fully and position the device so it will spray on the palate or back of the tongue. You pump the inhaler, inhale strongly but slowly, perhaps counting to 10, and then exhale normally. Check with your doctor or see the manufacturer's suggestions for additional or drug-specific information.
2. Participating in an Ongoing Asthma Management Plan
When your asthma has been diagnosed as activity-related, your doctor may suggest using a rescue breather to prevent symptomatic attacks. By evaluating your personal asthma triggers, you and your doctor will be able to take preventive action. You may be encouraged to use your bronchodilator before engaging in sports activity, traveling to high elevations or sleeping.
Because asthma conditions can change, new triggers may arise. If you notice that you are coughing, wheezing or having difficulty getting a full breath, using the rescue apparatus can stave off or decrease the severity of an asthma attack.
3. Getting Help in an Emergency
People with more severe asthma or a combination of pulmonary conditions will use a different medication for long-term control of bronchial efficiency. However, your doctor will also prescribe a bronchodilator in case of emergency. Sometimes aggravating physical exercise or environmental conditions will instigate an asthma attack, despite the long-term medication. You can use the rescue breather as directed when chest tightness and decreased lung capacity make breathing very difficult.
If an asthma attack does not subside after prescribed use of the inhaler, your doctor may counsel you to take an oral corticosteroid that you should always have on hand. Should these methods fail or if you feel disoriented or your skin takes on a bluish cast, call 911 and seek emergency treatment right away.
