ANSHU BHIMBAT REVEALS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Getting to grips with medication is key to relieving symptoms, says LloydsPharmacy Pharmacist Anshu Bhimbat.

“Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways, symptoms of which include shortness of breath and a tight chest,” says Anshu. “If these symptoms are interrupting your everyday life, then it could be a reflection of poor asthma medication control.” And much comes down to basics. “One of the most common mistakes is in using the inhaler,” says Anshu. “That’s where we would sit down with a patient and go through their technique.”

BREATHLESS Good inhaler technique is needed for both prevention and relief, but by taking your preventer inhaler correctly, and as prescribed, the likelihood of needing your reliever inhaler is reduced.

Making sure you breathe out fully first to create space in your airways so you can breathe in deeper and for longer when you inhale your asthma medicine. This gives it the best chance of being most effective.

Anshu notes: “Sometimes patients place their inhalers by their toothbrush to remind them to take them.”

Of course, it’s essential to use inhalers even when you’re feeling well to ensure your asthma stays in check. That way you control your asthma and it doesn’t control you!

To find your nearest LloydsPharmacy store, get advice on taking control of your asthma and tips on using your inhaler, or to request an appointment to see a pharmacist visit