What should you know about inhaled corticosteroids asthma?

Asthma involves sensitive, inflamed airways that can narrow in response to triggers. Inhaled corticosteroids act mainly in the lungs to settle that inflammation. They are preventers, so their benefit depends on consistent use and may not be felt immediately during a sudden attack. They are different from a reliever, which is prescribed for rapid symptom relief. Ongoing cough, wheezing, or chest tightness needs review because it can have causes other than asthma, including Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Cough.

Follow the prescribed schedule even when breathing is settled, and never change the dose or stop abruptly without advice. Have your inhaler technique checked, since poor coordination can leave medicine in the mouth rather than the lungs. Rinse your mouth and spit after each use to lower the chance of oral irritation or thrush. Record missed doses and reliever use so your clinician can judge control and adjust the plan.

Use your asthma action plan for an increase in symptoms. Emergency care is needed for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking, blue or grey lips, drowsiness, faintness, or little response to the reliever. Book a review if symptoms wake you, restrict normal activity, or require the reliever more often than your plan allows.

Ask how long the preventer should be continued, whether a spacer suits your inhaler, what side effects to watch for, and when your treatment should be reassessed.