What does inhaler therapy treat?

Some inhalers relax tightened airway muscles, helping air move more freely during wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Other inhalers reduce airway inflammation and are taken regularly to lower the chance of symptoms returning. A clinician may prescribe different inhalers for immediate relief and ongoing control. Inhalers can help manage [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/) and [COPD](/conditions/copd/), but the medicine and schedule depend on your diagnosis and breathing pattern.

Use the inhaler exactly as prescribed and ask a pharmacist or clinician to watch your technique. A spacer may make it easier for some people to deliver medicine effectively. Keep track of when symptoms occur, such as after exercise, at night, or around irritants. Do not share an inhaler or change the dose without advice. Testing such as [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) may help clarify how well your lungs move air.

Seek urgent medical help if breathing becomes suddenly or severely difficult, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, or your reliever is not helping as directed. Arrange a prompt review when symptoms are becoming more frequent, waking you, limiting activity, or requiring your reliever more often than planned. [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) and [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) can have causes other than asthma or COPD, so persistent symptoms deserve assessment.

Ask which inhaler is for quick relief and which is for prevention, how to check your technique, what side effects to watch for, and when your treatment plan should be reviewed.