What should you know about rescue inhaler for asthma?

Asthma can narrow and inflame the airways, leading to wheezing, cough, chest tightness or breathlessness. A rescue, or reliever, inhaler is designed for quick symptom relief by relaxing airway muscle. It does not remove every cause of airway inflammation and should not replace a personalised asthma plan. Allergic Rhinitis, House Dust Mite Allergy and other triggers can worsen symptoms, so note where and when attacks occur. Needing the inhaler more often than advised can signal that asthma control needs review.

Keep the inhaler accessible and check that it is not empty or expired. Use the prescribed technique and dose; a spacer may help some people coordinate breathing with the device. Sit upright, breathe steadily and follow your written asthma action plan during symptoms. Record triggers and how often you need relief. Arrange a review if symptoms recur, night waking develops, activity becomes harder or the inhaler gives less relief. A clinician may review preventer treatment, technique and whether Nebuliser Treatment is appropriate in a severe episode.

Follow your action plan and seek urgent help if breathing is severely difficult, you cannot speak comfortably, lips look blue or grey, you become drowsy or confused, or symptoms worsen despite the prescribed reliever. Do not drive yourself if you are seriously breathless. Sudden Chest Tightness, Wheezing or Cough with rapidly worsening breathing deserves urgent assessment, even if you have used the inhaler.

Can you check my inhaler technique and spacer use? How often is too often for my reliever? What exact steps should I follow in an attack, and when should I call emergency services?