Intal In Our Lungs
Cromolyn is a synthetic compound that is used to prevent some allergic reactions. Many of the symptoms and signs of allergic reactions are caused by chemicals such as histamine that are released from mast cells, a type of cell that is found throughout the body as well as in the lungs, nose, and eyelids. Cromolyn works by preventing the release of these chemicals from the mast cells. Cromolyn is inhaled to prevent episodes of asthma due to allergy. It also is used as a nasal inhaler to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the lining of the nose) and as an ophthalmic (eye) solution to treat allergic conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eyelids). The FDA approved Cromolyn in 1973. In 1997, the FDA approved over-the- counter status for the nasal solution.
Cromolyn oral inhaler controls episodes of asthma caused by foreign antigens such as pollens by preventing spasm and narrowing of the breathing tubes of the lungs. Cromolyn nasal spray is used for the control of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, a condition in which the lining of the nose swells with fluid “stuffy nose and fluid is released into the nasal passages runny nose” (Web 1). In conjunctivitis, cromolyn eye solution controls swelling, tearing, itching, and redness of the eye.
The canister should be shaken well before administering. After breathing out completely, the mouthpiece is inserted between the open lips, and the lips are closed firmly around the mouthpiece. The valve of the canister then is pressed down one time while inhaling deeply and slowly. The canister then is removed from the lips, and the breath is held for a count of 10 before exhaling slowly. If more than one inhalation is being used, a minute should elapse between inhalations........
