Does Ventolin need spacer?

[fraid]

I use spacer for Flixotide, 2 Puffs bid, rarely have to use Ventolin now but did today without. Wondered if I should use spacer which would have traces of Preventer still in it? I wash as per instructions which say don't rinse all detergent out as this helps delivery- but surely makes drug stick to sides instead of all going in your lungs? Hence slight film even when thoroughly washed and dried, so wiped whole thing out occ. so I know it's clean. Can't dry it fast enough before suddenly needing Ventolin...🤔🙃

Thanks to this forum have learnt such a lot but still learning. Am lucky it's mild, so sorry for you extreme sufferers. 🤗

[peege]

You can fraid. It's not essential but you do get more of the medication using one rather than without however, when out and about my pockets or bag aren't big enough to carry a spare spacer cleanly.

[peege in reply to peege]

PS I've a spare spacer so put one in the dishwasher and air dry it somewhere clean for weeks whilst using the other. A friend who has very severe bronch plus aspergillosis washes hers weekly. You can buy spare spacers from the chemist (another thing my gp refuses to supply)!

[Melanie1989]

It is really important to use a spacer with all mdi inhalers as the inhaler expels at approx 60mph so most will just hit the back of your throat. Left over residue from your preventer will be negligible, washing your spacer monthly should suffice and replace yearly. Hope this helps!

[Oldandgray]

By the time I need ventalin then I have to use a spacer otherwise can’t get the drug in at all as not enough breath!

[Moosarelli]

I always use a spacer to get maximum dose and if I know I'm taking my preventer at the same time, I take my ventolin first to open up the airway before using the preventer.

[Mandevilla]

You don't 'need' a spacer, but it does help get more Ventolin in to you, especially if you are really struggling with your breathing.

I use it with a spacer at home. I must admit that I don't always carry a spacer with me when I go out as it's enough of a hassle taking the inhaler with me (why don't they make more pockets in women's clothing?!!!) without adding the spacer as well.

[janet65]

Apart from all the advice above, I would say alway use a spacer to save your throat and voice. I started using inhalers back in the 1970/80s and after so many years my voice is a mess. Goes from min ie mouse to very deep!! It was only a few years ago I was given a spacer to use. I know they probably haven't always been available but they are now. Just my thoughts.

Despite my Username, I'm 72yrs old. 😀

[fraid in reply to janet65]

Didn't know it would affect voice, so shall use it I think. My voice already goes from mini mouse to dalek when M.E bad! 🙄

[janet65 in reply to fraid]

It seems to be damage from the powder residue. I would say, better to be safe....

[Gareth57 in reply to fraid]

I only get a dodgy voice if I don't rinse after using my preventer, some people gargle I tend to just have a brew soon afterwards. I have also changed from pumps to mdi inhalers

[fraid]

Thank you all for your comments, shall ponder further though did await your replies before washing spacer- was told to do this weekly but I do it when glass gets cloudy. 👍

[fraid]

Get a bum bag?

[fraid]

Thanks but I hate drugs, take the minimum and stay with what I know works for me so don't want to change.