Inhaler - How to tell

How can you tell if the inhaler is near empty? As I have a feeling my reliever is close to running out.

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Hey Crystal,

Normally if you shake them next to your ear, you should be able to hear and feel if there is any medicine in there.

xxx

[Annista]

Oh dear, this sounds very obsessive but I usually keep a note of how much I've used on my peak flow diary. I started doing it when I was trying to identify my triggers and whether my asthma was worse in any particular situation (e.g. work)and it got to be a habit.

[Hidden]

I keep a note of what I've used, as I'm still under the asthma to find a treatment which works. I was wondering for when I'm out and about and if I need to use, if there was a way to tell without being at home and seeing the excel sheet.

There is the rattling sound from the inhaler, does this get more when empty than when it does full. I don't really remember if I heard a rattling from either of my two inhalers.

[KateMoss]

............ just ensure you always have a spare / replacement at home or with you even if it is your reliever....

the more experienced you get the better you are at knowing how much is in there....

Kate

[Hidden]

i always have another one in the car !

sake it about u can hear when its geting low

[Hidden]

I've heard you can't always tell if you shake it as the propellant makes a noise too - not sure if this is right?

I'm rubbish at keeping track of Ventolin, but with Atrovent which I use as a reliever, it starts needing a couple of pumps before the stuff comes out, shortly before it runs out - v useful as it's enough time to order a new one! But this is a different drug/pharma company so may not be so useful; I find Ventolin does this too but not for long enough to be useful.

[Hidden]

i'm hopeless knowing when my reliever is running out too - doesn't help that i don't always use the same one, i have 3 in different places - handbag / car / bedside table

My preventer i keep track of cos i write on my calendar when i use it, thats easier cos i only take it when i get up and go to bed