Inhaled Corticosteroids Prescribed (Asthma)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Inhaled Corticosteroids
• Medical Term(s): Inhaled Glucocorticoids, Inhaled Adrenal Cortex Hormones

Summary

Inhaled corticosteroids are a form of medication used to control and prevent asthma symptoms. They are delivered directly into the lungs through an inhaler device, reducing inflammation and making it easier to breathe.

Purpose

Inhaled corticosteroids are used to treat and manage asthma, aiming to reduce chronic inflammation in the airways, prevent asthma attacks, and improve overall asthma control.

Indications

• Persistent asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
• Patients who require frequent use of rescue inhalers.
• Prior episodes of severe asthma attacks.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions.
• Patients may need a baseline lung function test (spirometry) to assess the severity of their asthma.
• Patients should be trained on proper inhaler technique.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate inhaled corticosteroid.
2. Patients should shake the inhaler well before use.
3. If using an MDI (Metered Dose Inhaler), patients must exhale fully, place the mouthpiece in their mouth, and press the canister to release the medication while inhaling deeply and slowly.
4. If using a DPI (Dry Powder Inhaler), patients must follow specific instructions for loading the medication and inhaling deeply.
5. Rinse mouth with water after inhalation to prevent oral thrush.

Duration

• Daily use as prescribed, often requiring multiple doses per day.
• Each inhalation takes a few minutes.

Setting

• The procedure is performed at home or any convenient place as it only involves inhaler use.

Personnel

• Initial prescription and training by a healthcare provider, usually a primary care physician or pulmonologist.
• Follow-up consultations to monitor response and adjust dosage if needed.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Oral thrush, hoarseness, cough.
• Rare: Adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, cataracts, growth retardation in children.

Benefits

• Improved asthma control.
• Reduction in the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms and attacks.
• Enhanced quality of life and ability to participate in daily activities.

Recovery

• Continuous use is required to sustain the benefits.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor asthma control and inhaler technique.
• Patients should report any side effects to their healthcare provider promptly.

Alternatives

• Other medications such as leukotriene inhibitors, long-acting beta-agonists, or biologics.
• Pros: May be suitable for patients who cannot tolerate inhaled corticosteroids.
• Cons: May be less effective, more expensive, or require injections.

Patient Experience

• Most patients find inhaled corticosteroids easy to use following proper instruction.
• They generally feel relief from asthma symptoms within a few days to weeks.
• Proper technique and adherence to the prescribed regimen are crucial for effectiveness.
• Some patients may experience mild side effects like throat irritation, which can typically be managed with rinsing the mouth after use.