Inhalers.

[Melissa87]

My dad has been on ventolin inhalers for over 25 years as his copd worsened new inhalers have been given ie spiriva and steride (purple). He now has the nebulizer form of steride and ventolin, but still has inhalers. When he was discharged last Friday there was a note for the gp to check inhalers as the ones he's using has a increased the risk of developing pneumonia. How can something he's used for many years now flag up such a deadly infection for a person with major lung disease.

[Toci]

Hi there, some inhalers have pneumonia listed as a side effect so it can only be good that they are monitoring and the GP can eliminate any causing problems.

[Hidden]

Hi I am a bit confused as someone diagnosed with copd is normally given a preventer such as seretide, symbicort etc. They are also usally given Spiriva as well to help strengthen the lungs long term, as well as a reliever - ventolin. Why has he only been using ventolin all these years?

I have heard there is a small risk of pneumonia due to inhaler use, but this has to be balanced against their benefits. It's a calculated risk we have to take in order to be able to breathe better and limit further damage. x

[Toci in reply to Hidden]

Hi Bev, I don't think everyone with COPD is given the inhalers you list as I only had Spiriva for years. I think it depends on the patient's needs and on GP preference.

[Hidden in reply to Toci]

Oh I thought it was standard procedure. Sorry Toci and thanks for putting me right. x

[Nottobad in reply to Hidden]

I thought the same as you coughalot I have always been given a preventer since dx in 2006 and ventalin. I used to be on speriva but have had it changed recently to another one because my community resp team don't use speriva anymore but I forgot to ask why. Also the side effects have to be listed. It doesn't mean you will get them.

[Titchy52]

Melissa87 we all have different inhalers over time at the moment I'm on spirvia and symbicort then Ventolin when needed also muccodyne syrup for mucas to help thin it out best wishes to you both xx

[Hidden]

Hello Melissa,

I don't know the answer to your question, but I see others were quick to respond after your post, which is really helpful. I seem to have missed out on a lot of posts somehow.

[tamariki]

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