When is inhaler therapy recommended for asthma?

Asthma can narrow and irritate the airways, causing wheeze, cough, chest tightness, or breathlessness. A reliever inhaler can open narrowed airways during symptoms, while a preventer inhaler reduces airway inflammation when used as prescribed. Some people need a combination inhaler or a separate plan for exercise or allergies. The right choice depends on symptom pattern, examination, previous treatment, and inhaler technique.

Use the inhaler exactly as prescribed and ask a clinician or pharmacist to watch your technique. Keep a written asthma action plan, know which inhaler is for quick relief, and check whether a spacer is suitable. Do not stop a regular preventer because you feel well without discussing it. Arrange review if symptoms disturb sleep, limit activity, or require reliever use more often than planned.

Seek emergency help if breathing is severe or rapidly worsening, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, you become drowsy, or your reliever is not helping according to your action plan. Sit upright, follow the prescribed emergency instructions, and do not drive yourself if breathing is unsafe. A flare can worsen quickly even when asthma has been controlled before.

Ask: Which inhaler is my reliever? Do I need a preventer? Can you check my technique? Should I use a spacer? What signs mean I should follow the urgent part of my action plan?