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How to Use a Metered Dose Inhaler

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: July 31, 2008

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5 of 10

How to Hold Your Breath

Photo courtesy of A.D.A.M. (hold breath; count to 10)

Count to 10 and Hold Breath

A.D.A.M.
This next step is designed to get the medicine deeply into your airways, so you can get maximum benefit from every dose. Hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds (10 seconds is best). Wait one minute and repeat for the second dose. Ideally, you'll be able to hold your breath for a count of 10. If that's not possible, though, just hold it as long as you can without getting anxious.

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