As we head into colder months, asthma symptoms often worsen, leading to increased inhaler use. Healthcare Group GP Dr Laura Bell explains how you can ensure your asthma control is as good as possible while protecting the environment.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a common lung condition that can affect people of any age. It is caused by inflammation (swelling) of the airways which makes it harder for air to pass through the lungs. This leads to the classic wheeze sound when breathing out, breathlessness, a tight chest and coughing.
It often runs in families and goes alongside hay fever and eczema. It may occur randomly or when you encounter a trigger such as allergens (e.g. dust or pollen), pollution, smoke or cold weather. Asthma symptoms can also be triggered by exercise and infections such as colds or flu.
Asthma Inhalers
Traditionally there were two main types of inhalers: preventers/treatment (usually brown or purple) and relievers/rescue (blue or turquoise). Treatment inhalers help to reduce the inflammation in the lungs and are important to use regularly to keep asthma under control. Rescue inhalers are used to quickly relieve symptoms for a short time.
Many people are now able to switch to a combination inhaler (Symbicort – red and white) which contains both a treatment and a rescue medication. This makes it easier to remember to take regularly and gives a longer benefit than rescue alone if used just as needed.
Environmental Impact
Inhalers contribute to 3-4% of the entire NHS carbon footprint. The most common inhalers used in the UK at the moment are metered dose inhalers (MDIs), such as Ventolin and Clenil. These contain propellants which are potent greenhouse gases and are thousands of times more powerful than carbon dioxide.
Other countries use more dry powder inhalers (DPIs) which have a much lower carbon footprint as they do not contain propellant gases. Many patients find DPIs much easier to use too.
Dry powder inhalers can be used by most people with asthma who need a quick and deep breath for the medicine to reach the airways. They usually come with a dose counter so you can track your medication use and don’t need a spacer device.
If you use inhalers and wish to reduce the environmental impact of your treatment there are three main things you can do:
1. Make sure your asthma control is as good as it can be
The best treatment regime for you and the planet is the one which controls your asthma well. If you need to use your rescue (blue) inhaler more than three times a week this can be a sign that your asthma is not well controlled. You should talk to your doctor or nurse if this is the case.
2. Switch to a dry powder inhaler, possibly a combination inhaler
Starting or changing to a dry powder inhaler is a good way for many people to improve their care and reduce environmental impact. But for some people, MDIs will remain the best option. It’s really important that you talk about any changes to your inhaler device with your doctor or nurse rather than just stopping it.
3. Have an asthma review with your doctor or nurse
Our nurse-led clinic uses the latest diagnostic equipment to assess your asthma diagnosis and guide best management.
Our lead asthma nurse and doctors have undergone up-to-date training on asthma care and will be able to provide you with a personalised asthma plan and the best treatment regime for your symptoms.
It is especially important to see your doctor or nurse for an asthma review if you have needed to attend hospital due to your asthma in the past 48 hours.
Managing asthma well improves your quality of life and reduces your environmental footprint. By maintaining good asthma control, considering alternative inhaler options and staying engaged with your healthcare provider, you can make choices that benefit your health and the planet. Speak with your doctor or nurse to explore the best asthma care plan for you and take a step towards more sustainable, effective asthma management.
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