Many patients with asthma and other breathing conditions often rely on inhalers to receive life-saving medication. Not everyone uses inhalers effectively, but smart technology can help.
Inhalers save lives. For patients with asthma or other lung disorders, they can ward off attacks using an inhaler to create a mist of medication that bring instant relief. But it’s not easy to use one properly, especially for children. A smart inhaler can provide feedback to help train patients. Researchers in Egypt and UK have released results of a study that has shown how a smart inhaler can help patients learn to use the device more effectively. One model that included an audible signal proved to be the most helpful in developing proper technique. Not only was it better than traditional verbal instructions at getting patients to inhale for the correct amount of time, it also was demonstrated to result in more consistent use. The system also provides feedback through an app on a smartphone.