Question 1

how does an inhaler work?

Accepted Answer

BRONCHIAL ASTHMA: The inhaler  is a bronchodilator. It relaxes the bronchial smooth muscle, decrease mast cell degranulation and histamine release.They are effective within minutes lasting x 6-8 hours.

Question 2

why isn't my inhaler working?

Accepted Answer

No medicine: No medicine left in, or if new-broken pump.

Question 3

can my inhaler stunt my growth?

Accepted Answer

Inhaler and growth: If you are 38 i'm afraid you are done growing.  The inhaler won't make you shorter no matter what type of inhaler it is.  If you are asking about children who use steroid inhalers for asthma, there is some data to show slightly less growth but if their asthma is not well controlled then they grow even less than the kids who are on steroid inhalers and way less then kids without asthma.

Question 4

why does my inhaler make me worse?

Accepted Answer

Multiple reasons: Some people have vocal cords and/or airways that are irritated by the fine crystals of the meds or propellants in the inhaler. Others may develop polyps or irritation of the vocal cords from the corticosteroids in certain inhalers. In others, increased airflow after using the inhaler can trigger coughing up mucus that was otherwise 'stuck' in the airways. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms.

Question 5

can you overdose on inhalers and die?

Accepted Answer

Inhalers: Some people use the inhalers and stay at home when they should be seeking medical attention. So that they are in extremis when they finally make  it to the hospital. There can also be paradoxical bronchospasm with albuterol use. If you are unclear as to how frequently you should be using an inhaler or concerned that it is not working-contact your doctor!

Question 6

is it ok to use someone elses inhaler?

Accepted Answer

NO: If you need inhalers then go see your md and determine why you need the inhaler. Asthma can be deadly and one needs the right medications. If other issues with breathing they can be chronic. One needs to have the correct diagnosis. 
Do not use other peoples drug!
not all that wheezes is asthma.

Question 7

can you lose your taste with inhalers?

Accepted Answer

Taste Loss w/Inhaler: I presume you are speaking of inhalers used for asthma, bronchitis or copd. They have not been shown to cause loss of taste.
Check with your prescribing provider. You'll probably need to go in for a physical to see about possible causes.

Question 8

should i take my inhaler whereever i go?

Accepted Answer

You  better: If  you  need  no  matter  where  you  are  , if  needed  you  have  it.

Question 9

what is the proper way to use an inhaler?

Accepted Answer

Use a spacer: The easiest way to use an inhaler is with a spacer. You're much more likely to do it correctly. The inhalation for an hfa inhaler is a slow inhalation through the spacer. Dry powder inhalers are used differently, so make sure you review with your doctor or pharmacist the proper way for your inhaler.

Question 10

how old must a child be to use an inhaler?

Accepted Answer

Depends....: A child only needs to be old enough to be able to follow the command of "take a deep breath".  For children, the almost mandatory use of an aerochamber and mask will help also help in improving the effects of an inhaler.

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Doctor answers about:

Inhaler

A member asked:

How does an inhaler work?

A member asked:

Why isn't my inhaler working?

A member asked:

Can my inhaler stunt my growth?

A member asked:

Why does my inhaler make me worse?

A member asked:

Can you overdose on inhalers and die?

A member asked:

Is it ok to use someone elses inhaler?

A member asked:

Can you lose your taste with inhalers?

A member asked:

Should i take my inhaler whereever i go?

A member asked:

What is the proper way to use an inhaler?

A member asked:

How old must a child be to use an inhaler?

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