Dr Dermot Nolan MB MICGP MRCGP
Secretary, PCRSI
Asthma is a common condition in Ireland, affecting nearly half a million people, which makes the country one of the hotspots for asthma globally.
Asthma is responsible for over 80 deaths per year and although it is a relatively rare event, one of the major factors is poorly controlled asthma and overuse of reliever ‘blue’ inhalers. Managing asthma well is crucial to avoid flare-ups and trips to the hospital and to help people live life without constant interruptions from their symptoms.
Overuse of SABAs to manage asthma
Recently, there’s been a big change in how experts recommend treating asthma; it’s something everyone should know about — especially if you or someone you know uses an inhaler. A lot of people rely on short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), like the blue reliever inhalers, for quick relief when symptoms flare up. While these inhalers work fast, overusing them can actually make asthma worse over time and increase the risk of serious attacks.
In Ireland, there’s a real issue with people using way more SABAs than they should. If you’re going through more than three inhalers a year, it’s a sign that your asthma might not be well-controlled. This is where new advice comes in: instead of reaching for that blue inhaler, focus on using preventer inhalers — those containing low-dose steroids (called ICS). These work to calm the inflammation in your airways, which is the root cause of asthma.
While these inhalers work
fast, overusing them can
actually make asthma worse.
Management of milder asthma
For people with milder asthma, the experts recommend using a combination inhaler with both steroids and a fast-relief medication when needed. This approach not only helps with symptoms right away but also keeps the condition in check long-term, reducing the chances of a serious asthma attack.
In Ireland, healthcare professionals are encouraging patients to rethink how they manage their asthma. This means talking to your doctor about how often you use your inhaler, learning the risks of overusing relievers and sticking to a routine with your preventer medication. It is also worth looking at the Asthma Society of Ireland website for resource videos on how to use your inhalers correctly. The vast majority of patients have incorrect inhaler techniques, and hence are not getting the benefit of the drug.
Speak with a doctor for best asthma approach
By making these changes, people with asthma can avoid scary hospital trips, take better control of their symptoms and feel more confident about their health. So, if you’re reaching for that blue inhaler a little too often, it might be time for a chat with your doctor.
