Study of assessing the adequacy of Inhaler technique in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a tertiary care center

Dr. Neeharika Balla; Dr. Sunil Kumar Bhukya

Volume : IX, Issue : X, October - 2019

Study of assessing the adequacy of Inhaler technique in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a tertiary care center

Dr. Neeharika Balla, Dr. Sunil Kumar Bhukya

Abstract :

INTRODUCTION: Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are ongoing concerns in health care. Poor inhaler technique leads to reduced drug delivery to the lungs and hence improper control of the symptoms. AIM: To assess the inhaler technique in patients with asthma and COPD METHODS: Patients on inhalation therapy for asthma and COPD attending Respiratory Medicine department in ASRAM medical college and hospital were included in the study. Their inhaler technique was assessed according to a standard check list. RESULTS: There were 108 participants, 86 with COPD and 22 with asthma in the study. Over half of the patients had incorrect inhaler technique. 52% of patients using rotahaler had good inhaler technique compared to 42% using pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) with spacer and 35% using pMDI alone. DISCUSSION: Along with appropriate therapy, correct inhaler technique is the cornerstone of achieving good symptom control and prevention of exacerbations. Rechecking inhaler therapy time to time is very essential.