About 60 per cent of 500 asthma patients are found using the inhalers incorrectly
A syndrome called Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) is emerging as a major hindrance in the treatment of asthma.
Experts
at respiratory critical care unit of King George’s Medical University (KGMU),
said that patients, especially the educated ones, were often misled by
information gathered online, especially about steroids which could hinder them
from getting the right treatment.
Prof
Rajendra Prasad, former head of respiratory medicine at KGMU, said that every
week two to three patients, influenced by incomplete internet knowledge, resist
steroid prescriptions for asthma.
He stressed that steroids, when prescribed and monitored by doctors, are the most effective asthma treatment.
Prof Ved Prakash, Head of the respiratory critical care department of KGMU,
highlighted that around 1.9 lakh people died due to asthma complications in
India annually, a concerning statistic, given that asthma can be managed well
with proper medical guidance.
He
pointed out that poor air quality worsens asthma and emphasised the importance
of awareness and accurate diagnosis.
Prof
Sumit Rungta of the medical gastroenterology and dermatology department added
that asthma, being an allergy, cannot be cured but can be managed.
Meanwhile, experts at KGMU said that according to a survey by the Department of
Respiratory Medicine, about 60 per cent of 500 asthma patients were found using
the inhalers incorrectly. This improper use impacts the inhaler’s delivery to
the lungs, compromising asthma management.
Consequently,
patients are often prescribed higher medication dosages (two to three times a
day) due to perceived ineffectiveness, when once or twice daily usage might
suffice with the correct technique.
Experts
noted that “incorrect inhalation may necessitate a separate inhaler for 10 per
cent of patients”.
Experts also underscored the importance of thorough mouth cleaning after inhaler use to manage respiratory diseases and prevent dental complications. He outlined key steps for effective inhaler usage, including shaking the inhaler before use, exhaling fully before medication administration, holding the inhaler in the correct position, inhaling deeply while dispensing the medicine, holding the breath for at least five seconds, and shaking the inhaler between puffs (if applicable).
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