For people with asthma or COPD, a sudden attack can make breathing extremely difficult within minutes. In that moment, the reliever inhaler is the fastest way to open the airways, and it can save a life. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains why the inhaler is a lifesaving medicine and how to be ready for an emergency.

Why the inhaler works so fast. A reliever inhaler delivers medicine directly into the airways, relaxing the tightened muscles and opening the breathing tubes within minutes. No tablet or syrup works this quickly. That is why the reliever inhaler is the first line of treatment during an attack.

Always keep your reliever inhaler with you. Attacks can happen anywhere: at work, while travelling, at night or during exercise. Keep the inhaler in your bag, at home and at work, and make sure family members know where it is. Children with asthma should have one at school.

Be prepared:

• Check the expiry date and the dose counter regularly, so the inhaler isn’t empty when you need it.
• Learn the correct technique, and use a spacer if advised. It helps more medicine reach the lungs, especially during an attack.
• Follow your asthma action plan from your doctor, which tells you how to use your reliever during an attack.
• Make sure family members know how to help you use it.

What to do during an attack: sit upright, stay calm, and use your reliever inhaler as advised in your action plan. If breathing does not improve quickly, or gets worse, go to the hospital immediately.

When the inhaler is not enough. Seek emergency care if:

• You are too breathless to speak in full sentences
• Your lips or nails turn bluish
• Your reliever gives little or no relief, or you need it again very soon
• You feel drowsy or confused

Don’t depend only on the reliever. Needing your reliever often means your condition isn’t well controlled. Regular controller inhalers prevent attacks in the first place, so the best emergency is the one that never happens.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com