How asthma treatment has changed — and what it means for you
Even when you feel fine, your airways are mildly inflamed. The blue puffer (SABA) opens them — but doesn't calm the inflammation.
It works fast, but doesn't prevent the next attack. Using it more than twice a week is a sign asthma isn't controlled.
A combination inhaler (often budesonide-formoterol) treats the inflammation AND opens the airways — one inhaler, both jobs.
If your asthma is mild, this new combo can simply be used when you have symptoms — called AIR (anti-inflammatory reliever) therapy.
If symptoms are frequent, the same inhaler is used every day plus as-needed. This is called MART therapy.
A Written Asthma Action Plan tells you what to do as symptoms change. Every adult with asthma should have one.
Poor technique wastes most of the dose. Ask your GP or pharmacist to watch you use it — a 2-minute fix can transform your control.
Always have it with you — pocket, bag, car. If you need it before exercise, that's fine; that's what it's for.
Common ones: smoke, dust, pets, pollen, cold air, exercise, viral colds. Avoiding what you can helps a lot.
Viral infections are the biggest cause of attacks. See us early in a cold — a small adjustment can prevent a hospital visit.
Smoking and vaping worsen asthma and reduce inhaler effectiveness. Help to quit is genuinely available.
Annual asthma checks pick up worsening control before it becomes an attack. Worth booking even when you feel fine.
