Oct 13, 2023
901
Health
Breathe easier this fall with these tips
As the temperatures cool, many people living with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) notice that breathing becomes more difficult. Cold, dry air can tighten the airways, while fall allergies such as ragweed can trigger symptoms. Rises in viral activity, including influenza, COVID-19, RSV and the common cold also become more prevalent during this time of year. Lungs may be irritated by the fluctuating temperatures and the smoke from enjoying a bonfire on a cool evening.
Taking a few preventative steps can lower your risk of flare-ups. Stay up to date on recommended vaccines, wash or sanitize your hands frequently, and avoid common triggers such as smoke and cold air when possible.
Spring cleaning gets all the attention, but fall is a great time to tidy up your medicine cabinet and get ready for cold and flu season. Maintenance (controller) inhalers should be used every day as prescribed to prevent symptoms, while rescue inhalers provide quick relief during a sudden episode of shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
Featured Article
Using the correct inhaler technique is just as important as taking the medication itself. Different inhalers require different techniques. If you're unsure whether you're using your inhaler correctly, ask your pharmacist. Your pharmacist can also answer questions about your inhaler, help you stay adherent and refill your medications before you run out, and determine whether a spacer may improve medication delivery.
Always exhale fully before inhaling your medication, hold your breath for up to 10 seconds afterwards if able, and rinse your mouth out after use of inhaled corticosteroids to help prevent thrush.
Common inhaler types include:
- HFA metered-dose inhalers (e.g., Albuterol HFA, Symbicort): Require priming on first use and may require re-priming after a certain number of days without use. Shake the canister, then inhale slowly and deeply while pressing the canister.
- Soft mist inhalers (e.g., Spiriva Respimat, Stiolto Respimat): Require preparation/priming before first use. Inhale slowly and deeply while coordinating your breath with pressing the dose-release button.
- Dry powder inhalers (e.g., Breo Ellipta, Trelegy Ellipta, Advair Diskus): Do not shake these; they also do not require priming. Inhale quickly, forcefully and deeply to draw the medication into your lungs.
- Handihaler (e.g., Spiriva Handihaler): Insert and pierce the capsule before use, then inhale deeply. Most doses require two inhalations from the same capsule to receive the full dose of medication.
Your pharmacist can demonstrate the correct technique for your specific inhaler, as instructions vary by device. Always follow the instructions that came with your inhaler.
Be sure to contact your healthcare practitioner if any of the following occur:
- You’re using your rescue inhaler more than usual
- Breathing problems are waking you at night
- Increased coughing, wheezing or mucus production
- Shortness of breath
- You develop signs of infection, such as a fever.
Seek emergency medical care if you have severe shortness of breath, are unable to speak in full sentences, if your lips or fingertips take on a blue hue, or your rescue inhaler is not providing relief.
With a little planning, you can reduce your risk of respiratory flare-ups and enjoy all the beauty that fall has to offer. Your pharmacist is here to help you stay healthy — whether it’s reviewing your inhaler technique, making sure your vaccines are up to date, or helping you choose over-the-counter medications.
TidalHealth Community Pharmacy has convenient locations in Ocean Pines and Berlin. The North Ocean Pines location is at 11101 Cathage Road, the South Ocean Pines location is at 10614 Racetrack Road, Suite 7, and the Berlin location is within TidalHealth Atlantic. To learn more, visit tidalhealth.org/community-pharmacy.
Topics:
