New to steroids

[Lauraloo78]

Hi I’ve had mild asthma for 22 years and I’ve been very unaware of it only just seen an asthma nurse for first time I’ve been prescribed menial inhaler only 100 2 puffs twice a day and I really don’t like taking medication but I’m taking this been on it a few days,I had bad cotton ball throat to start but now it’s gone but the question I wanted to ask is wen I’ve just taken a puff with the spacer my heart rate goes fast for a bit and then I panic and shake a bit,is this normal as it’s kinda scared me a bit yes I’m a big baby lol,also I feel spaced for a bit after other then that I’m fine was just wondering if this is normal or do I need to speak to the doctors tomorrow many thanks.

[Tree20862]

Probably normal but touch base with doctor just to keep them in the loop. Be sure to rinse out your mouth after using your inhaler to get the residue out. Some side effects subside with time or become less troublesome.

[Lauraloo78 in reply to Tree20862]

Thank you soo much I don’t like that feeling at all I rinsed my mouth out and brushed my teeth I will ring doctors tomorrow thank you again very much appreciated.

[twinkly29]

Which inhaler is it?

[Lauraloo78 in reply to twinkly29]

It’s clenil modulate it’s a cream coloured inhaler

[twinkly29]

It's good that you're going with it even though you don't like taking medication - often asthmatics only need such an inhaler to keep things well controlled (ie it doesn't necessarily mean you'll be on loads of stuff) but it is important to take it every day even when you're well.

It can take 8 weeks or so to become fully effective, though will be building up in that time. As you've discovered, side effects (such as the weird throat feelings) can occur but generally go away as your body gets used to it.

Clenil is a steroid-only inhaler. I don't think It's known for causing palpitations, particularly immediately after taking it. Combi inhalers which include both a steroid and a long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) are well known for doing that initially but it's the LABA that does that not the steroid. Anxiety/panic could cause such symptoms and shakiness could maybe be caused by breathing inand out too quickly (while learning the technique to take the inhaler I mean).

It might be worth speaking to the nurse or your GP as they should be able to reassure you or check your technique (if that may be an issue although it might not).

[peege]

Hi, if you can't get hold of your respiratory nurse you could always give asthmaUK a quick call for guidance , 0300 222 5800I'm in the habit of rinsing my mouth & throat both before inhaling and after with a good gargle as well for good measure. I know nothing about Clenil however, with my Fostair & spacer I have to wait 30 seconds between puffs to allow the medication to drop down , otherwise you only get the propellant 2nd puff (info from 2 respiratory nurses and nurse/trainer at Pulmonary Rehabilitation course). Good luck, Peege

[Penelope321]

Yes, I was on an inhaler that made me feel anxious and panicky within minutes of taking a dose. I asked to be switched to something different. Make sure you’re taking Vitamin D3. Important for lung health.