Why #InhalersHainSahi: Answers To Your Inhaler Questions

Asthma is a condition in which it becomes harder to breathe due to your airways becoming narrow and swelling up. It can trigger coughing, chest pain, wheezing, and shortness of breath. While there is no permanent cure, healthy asthmatics manage the condition with just a few minor adjustments to their lifestyle. One of the primary ways to manage asthma symptoms is by using inhalers. If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with asthma, you might have many questions about this device. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about inhalers.

Why should you use inhalers?

Inhalers are used to deliver medicine straight to the lungs where it is needed the most. They are widely used and the most recommended way of delivering medication for obstructive airway diseases including asthma and COPD.  They are more effective than oral medication in cases of respiratory conditions because, as mentioned, they deliver medication directly to the lungs. Due to this, they also require less dosage of medication as compared to oral pills and have fewer side effects while providing quick relief.

Are inhalers safe?

Yes, inhalers are safe to use. Inhalers as a device are easy to use and carry. The specific medicine that you might be prescribed differs depending on factors like types of asthma, specific asthma symptoms, etc. but they all go through a rigorous approval process for safety. Since they provide medication directly to the lungs, less dosage is used, making them a safe option. Side effects are rare as long as you use your inhaler as directed but if you do experience any, you can consult your doctor for further guidance.

Are inhalers addictive?

No, inhalers are not associated with addiction. The medicine that is delivered to your lungs from inhalers does not have any addictive effects that might cause you to become dependent on them. However, you should be using your inhaler as prescribed by your doctor for the medicines to achieve the desired benefits and not use them more or less frequently. Using an inhaler can become a part of your daily routine to manage health, just like brushing your teeth.

Are inhalers better than pills?

If you are wondering why to use inhalers instead of pills, let us tell you more about how an inhaler works. Inhalers come with medicine that you can breathe in. This medicine goes through your airways to your lungs so the dosage can have a direct impact, making them more effective. Since they are directly delivered, a lesser dosage of medicine is also used compared to pills. Medicine from the consumed pills cannot directly reach the lungs and take time to be absorbed by the body. For times when you need medicine to take immediate effect, such as during an asthma attack, inhalers are indeed better than pills.

Are inhalers suitable for children?

Yes, inhalers are suitable for children. In fact, if your child has asthma, helping them learn how to properly handle and use an inhaler should be one of the priorities to help them manage the condition. There are also many inhaler types that can be used with spacers which make it easier to breathe in the proper dose of the medicine in case a child has trouble using an inhaler on its own.

Inhalers can be incredibly effective for those with asthma. If you have any concerns about your inhaler, we recommend talking to your doctor as they can take your medical history into account and give you specific guidance for your condition. You can also book an online consultation by clicking here.

References:

https://www.japi.org/x274b4b4/a-practical-guide-on-the-use-of-inhaler-devices-for-asthma-and-copd

https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/ajrccm/148.4_Pt_2.S1

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-asthma/in-depth/asthma-in-children/art-20044383

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