Cat asthma inhaler: safe use and advice

Inhalers deliver medicine through the mouth into the airways. A reliever is intended for quick easing of airway narrowing, while a preventer reduces airway inflammation when taken regularly as prescribed. Some devices need a spacer, and technique differs between inhalers. The colour or shape of a device is not a reliable guide to its contents.

Frequent symptoms, night waking, or repeated reliance on a reliever can mean the plan needs review. Cough and wheezing may have causes other than asthma, so an inhaler should not be borrowed, shared, or started without assessment.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist to watch your technique, including preparation, breathing in, and cleaning. Follow the label and action plan, keep track of doses where the device allows it, and carry the prescribed reliever when advised. Rinse your mouth after a steroid preventer if instructed. Store devices as directed and replace them when empty or damaged.

If the inhaler gives little relief, symptoms return quickly, or you need it more often than planned, arrange prompt medical review. Do not increase doses or stop a preventer suddenly without advice.

Get emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, or difficulty speaking. Use the prescribed emergency instructions while help is arranged. A spacer or nebuliser may be recommended in particular circumstances, but the device choice should come from a clinician.

Ask which inhaler is the reliever, which is the preventer, how many doses to take, whether a spacer is needed, and what side effects to report. Ask for a technique check and a written plan for worsening symptoms.