Does a general practice perform inhaler therapy?

A clinician may ask about wheezing, cough, chest tightness, triggers, night symptoms, exercise tolerance, smoking or vaping, and previous attacks. They can listen to your chest, check breathing, review current medicines, and decide whether testing or specialist input is needed. Inhalers may be used for quick relief or regular control, depending on the underlying problem. Technique matters: an incorrect seal, timing, or breathing pattern can reduce how much medicine reaches the airways. A clinician or nurse can watch you use the device and correct the steps.

Bring every inhaler, spacer, and medicine list to the visit, even if a device is nearly empty. Note when symptoms occur, what brings them on, and how often you need any reliever medicine. Do not change a prescribed inhaler schedule without advice. Use the device exactly as taught, clean it according to its instructions, and ask how to check remaining doses. If the inhaler feels ineffective, arrange a review rather than repeatedly taking extra doses.

Get emergency help for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking because of breathing, blue or grey lips, fainting, marked drowsiness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek prompt medical advice when a reliever is needed more often than directed, symptoms interrupt sleep, or usual activities become difficult. Sit upright and follow your personal action plan while waiting for help. Do not drive yourself if breathing is severely impaired.

Ask which inhaler is for immediate relief and which is for regular control, how to use each device, whether a spacer would help, and when technique or treatment should be reviewed. Confirm what symptoms require urgent care and whether you need a written breathing action plan.