Asthma inhalers are prescribed as a way to help open the airways of an asthma sufferer. Airway-narrowing can cause shortness of breath, coughing, congestion and wheezing. The narrowing can be caused by swelling in the airway, muscle spasms and a build-up of mucus. To relieve the symptoms of asthma, your doctor may prescribe the use of an inhaler. Albuterol is the generic form of the inhalation medication most often prescribed. It can have some serious side effects.
Identification
Albuterol is the most commonly prescribed inhalation medicine used to treat asthma. Brand names of the asthma inhaler include ProAir, Vospire, Ventolin and AccuNeb. The inhalation solution comes in different doses, including .63mg, 1.25mg and 2.5mg. Alternatively, albuterol can be given in syrup and tablet form. Steroid inhalers used to treat asthma include Advair, Flovent and Pulmicort.
Effects
When you use an asthma inhaler, you’ll notice some obvious side effects, especially within the first week or so of usage. Many patients will feel shaky, nervous, irritable, sick to their stomach, and have difficulty sleeping. Patients may also experience a funny taste in their mouth and dry throat. Let your doctor know immediately if you have any serious side effects, such as chest pain, dizziness, palpitations or wheezing.
Considerations
Additionally, patients must beware of more serious and life-threatening side effects that can occur from using an asthma inhaler. There have been cases of the use of asthma inhalers resulting in a person experiencing bronchospasm. Bronchospasm occurs when the bronchi suddenly narrows and makes it extremely difficult to breathe. If left untreated, this condition can prove life threatening.
Misconceptions
Since asthma inhalers are often prescribed to treat allergy-related breathing problems, some patients do not realize that you can actually be allergic to the medication used in the inhaler. Inform your doctor if you see signs of a severe allergic reaction, like facial swelling, rashes, itching and difficulty breathing.
Warning
Although you may be concerned about the dangers of asthma inhalers, you should not stop the medication without first consulting with your doctor. You may need the inhaler in order to prevent a life-threatening asthma attack.
References
Writer Bio
Heather Topham Wood is a seasoned writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including USA Today, Gadgetell, Feel Rich and Step in Style. Heather is a published novelist with six Amazon bestsellers and a contract through Crescent Moon Press. She holds a bachelor's degree in English from TCNJ.
