Using an Inhaler

Asthma and Inhalers

If your child has been diagnosed with asthma then it is important to follow the advice and guidance from your child's GP or Asthma Nurse. There are two main inhalers that most children will be prescribed. 

Preventer Inhaler: This should be taken every day or when prescribed by their GP or Asthma Nurse even when the child is feeling well. It can prevent symptoms and even an asthma attack from occurring. The medicine will build up over time in your child's lungs.

Reliever Inhaler: This is used to relieve the symptoms of asthma. 

Spacer: Most children are also prescribed a spacer or facemask to use with their inhalers. This helps the medicine from escaping and helps it reach your child's lungs. 

Don't forget to brush your child's teeth and wash your child face after using their inhaler. 

Tips and Tricks to make using an inhaler easier

Be Creative: You could help decorate your child’s inhaler or spacer with stickers and give it a fun name like 'cloud air' or dragon's breath'. This could make them feel more excited about taking their inhaler 

Have Fun: After every time they take their preventer inhaler you could get them to do a funny dance or hand shake. 

Sticker Chart: Reward your child for taking their asthma pump by using our free sticker chart. Being praised can make a child feel much more confident about taking their inhaler.

Tips and Tricks to remember

Part of the bedtime routine: Try to take it at the same time everyday or when prescribed by your GP or Asthma Nurse. If it is part of your bedtime routine you are more likely to remember to take it. Use our bedtime check list to help remember to do it in the evenings. 

Set Reminders: You can leave post it notes on the fridge door or set reminders on your phone to help you remember. Leaving the inhaler insight like on the bedside table or on their bed can help remind you. 

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