HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Allergies and Symbicort

Support Forums
>
Allergies
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 5/30/2014 1:54 PM (GMT 0)
Hi.  I was prescribed, among other things, ProAir and Symbicort.  I'm having a difficult time with the inhalers.  I'm fairly certain I'm not using them correctly as I don't think the meds are getting into my lungs and are instead sitting on my tongue or throat.  Any tips for getting the meds where they belong?  I have a spacer if that helps.  Also, how long does it take before I start feeling the effects from Symbicort?  I know it's not immediate but I don't know if its something that really doesn't take effect for a week or two.  Thanks.
Posted 5/30/2014 7:45 PM (GMT 0)
Hi,
I am a respiratory therapist. The use of a spacer is the best way to ensure that you are getting the meds from your inhaler. When using your inhaler and spacer make sure that you have your mouth aroind the spacer before activating the inhaler. The med is suspended in the spacer but long enough to bring the spacer to your lips once activated. Be sure you are shaking the inhaler well. The Symbicort is a maintainence drug you need to take twice a day every day. The Pro-Air is a rescue inhaler to use when having problems. It my take awhile for the Symbicort to build up so you must take it every day. The pro-air should work within minutes but only works on your airways for wheezing and is specifically for bronchoconstriction and nothing more.

I hope this helps some.
Posted 5/30/2014 8:49 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks. I was prescribed those meds for allergy induced asthma. I get short of breath when outside as I can't breathe! My nose is stuffed up and my throat is full of "stuff"! So when I'm fast walking outside and trying to talk at the same time it's difficult and I can't breathe. Sounds as though my problem will exist until winter!! I'll try the spacer using your tip. That should help a lot. Thanks again.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply