Where can I go for answers?
Your healthcare provider is the best source of information about asthma treatments. They can help you understand what suits your specific needs and symptoms. Here are some questions many people wish they’d asked earlier:
1. Am I using my inhaler correctly?
“I used my inhaler wrong for over a year before I realized… and then I felt embarrassed to ask for advice.”
There’s no need to feel embarrassed! Many people need help learning the correct inhalation technique. Healthcare providers should offer support and training on inhaler use for anyone diagnosed with asthma. If you want to check your technique yourself, you can look for instructional videos or guides available on reputable health websites.
2. Can you help me stay motivated to take my medication every day?
“Taking my medication daily sounds simple, but I wasn’t prepared for all the obstacles and excuses that came up in my daily life.”
This is a common challenge! Finding the right routines and motivation is part of your provider’s role—they have many tips on how to stick to your treatment plan. This could include setting reminders or tying your medication to another daily habit. Ask your provider for tips and support to help you find a routine that works for you.
3. Are there any side effects I should know about?
“I felt my heart race, and I got shaky and anxious from my inhaler—is that normal?”
Some medications can cause mild side effects, like shakiness or a faster heartbeat, but many side effects ease as your body adjusts. If side effects affect your daily life, it’s important to talk to your provider. Often, there are alternative medications to try, so you can find a treatment that suits you best.
4. Can using an inhaler cause oral thrush?
“What’s this talk about oral thrush that everyone mentions but no one explained to me?”
It’s true that certain inhalers, especially those containing steroids, can increase the risk of oral thrush. A simple way to avoid this is to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after using your inhaler. Thrush is harmless but can be uncomfortable, so be sure to rinse to help keep your mouth clear of this side effect!
5. What if the medication doesn’t work?
“I don’t feel like my medications are helping. What happens if they don’t work? Is it even necessary to take them then?”
The time it takes to feel the effects of asthma treatment varies depending on the medication you use. Some work right away, while others may take weeks to fully kick in. Talk to your provider about what you can expect from your treatment and when you should notice results. They can help you adjust your treatment if it’s not working as intended.
6. Is corticosteroid treatment safe?
“Patients still fear steroids, no matter how many times I tell them steroids aren’t harmful and are the only treatment to reduce airway inflammation—they remain skeptical.”
Corticosteroids are a key part of asthma treatment because they reduce inflammation in the airways. The doses of corticosteroids in inhalers are safe to use and have few side effects. The most common side effect is oral thrush, which can be easily avoided by rinsing your mouth after each dose. Corticosteroids help you control asthma and prevent worsening, so speak with your provider if you’re concerned.
7. Why is having a treatment plan important?
A treatment plan is like a personal guide for managing your asthma in various situations. It includes information on how to use your medication for everyday control and during flare-ups. Your treatment plan is created with your healthcare provider and adjusted over time to fit your current health status. Having a treatment plan makes it easier to feel secure and prepared.
Ask your provider—they’re here to help you
Asking questions and getting answers is key to feeling confident in your asthma treatment. No question is too small, and your healthcare provider is there to support you. Remember, you’re not alone—there’s help available and answers to the questions you may have been afraid to ask.
