What should you know about DPI asthma?

A dry powder inhaler releases medicine when you breathe in firmly through the mouthpiece. Unlike a pressurised inhaler, it does not use a propellant spray, and many devices do not require a spacer. The device and medicine determine whether it is a preventer, a reliever, or part of a combination plan.

Asthma can narrow and inflame the airways, causing wheezing, cough, chest tightness, or breathlessness. These symptoms can also occur with other conditions, so treatment should follow a clinician's assessment rather than the symptom alone. See more about Asthma and related symptoms such as Wheezing and Chest Tightness.

Have a pharmacist, nurse, or doctor watch your technique, because each DPI has its own loading and dose steps. In general, prepare the dose as instructed, breathe out away from the device, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, and breathe in strongly and deeply. Hold your breath briefly if your instructions advise it, then replace the cover. Do not exhale into the inhaler, since moisture can affect the powder.

Take a preventer on the schedule prescribed, even when you feel well, and keep track of doses if your device has a counter. Rinse and spit after an inhaled steroid when advised. Keep the inhaler dry, and do not share it. A persistent Cough or symptoms triggered by indoor allergens may need a separate review, including possible Allergic Rhinitis or House Dust Mite Allergy.

Follow your personal asthma action plan during a flare. Seek emergency help if breathing is severely difficult, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, you become unusually drowsy or confused, or your reliever is not helping as directed. Sit upright and use your reliever according to the plan while arranging help; do not drive yourself if you are seriously breathless.

Arrange a prompt medical review for symptoms that keep returning, wake you at night, limit activity, or require reliever medicine more often than your clinician advised. A healthcare professional may check your technique, triggers, and whether another treatment, including Nebuliser Treatment in an appropriate setting, is needed.

Ask which inhaler is your preventer and which is your reliever, how many doses to take, and what to do if you miss one. Ask for a technique check with your exact device, how to recognise worsening control, when to arrange a review, and whether your action plan should change for exercise, travel, or respiratory infections.