- In the context of World Asthma Day, specialists emphasize that most patients abandon treatment when they feel well, even though lung inflammation remains active.
- Dr. Dolores Corbacho, a pulmonologist at Ribera Povisa Hospital, reminds us that the inhalation technique and daily treatment are key to avoiding irreversible structural damage to the bronchi.
Dr. Dolores Corbacho, head of the Pulmonology service at the Ribera Povisa hospital, warns that incorrect use of the inhaler or abandoning it when symptoms disappear is one of the main reasons for poor asthma control, a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide.
To mark World Asthma Day, celebrated on May 5th, the specialist emphasizes the importance of combining appropriate treatment with proper inhaler technique and good patient education. “Patient education for asthma is a fundamental element of treatment, as it reduces the risk of attacks, improves quality of life, and lowers healthcare costs,” explains Dr. Corbacho.
One of the most common mistakes is thinking that treatment is only necessary during attacks. “Many patients believe they only need medication when they experience 'shortness of breath or wheezing,' but asthma is a chronic inflammation that must be treated every day,” she reminds us.
The symptoms are only the visible part; underneath lies persistent inflammation that, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible structural damage to the bronchi. This damage includes bronchial remodeling, fibrosis, or fixed airflow obstruction, which can cause the lung to permanently lose functional capacity.
For this reason, specialists emphasize that frequent use of a rescue inhaler is a warning sign. “If a patient needs a bronchodilator more than twice a week, it means their asthma is not controlled and they should see a specialist,” says Dr. Corbacho.
In this context, inhaled treatment remains the most appropriate. “The great advantage of the inhaler is that it allows direct action on the bronchial mucosa, with greater efficacy and fewer side effects than oral treatments.”
However, its effectiveness depends largely on the technique. “An excellent drug is useless if it doesn't reach its therapeutic target. The inhalation technique is one of the areas where the most mistakes are made,” warns the specialist.
The most common mistakes with the inhaler
Among the most common failures are a lack of coordination between inhalation and activation of the device, inadequate inspiration, or failure to maintain breathing after taking the medication.
Furthermore, not all inhalers work the same way. It's important to distinguish between the medication and the device: with pressurized metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), coordination is key, while with dry powder inhalers, it's the force of the inhalation that allows the medication to reach the lungs.
The specialist also emphasizes the importance of maintaining preventive treatment even in the absence of symptoms. “The goal is to control the underlying inflammation, not just alleviate flare-ups,” Dr. Corbacho stresses.
In this regard, she debunks some common myths, such as the fear of inhaled corticosteroids. “The doses are minimal and safe, and their benefits far outweigh any risks. They do not cause physical dependence.”
In the context of World Asthma Day, it is emphasized that asthma management requires regular medical follow-up, review of inhaler technique, and active patient involvement. “With appropriate treatment, good technique, and health education, most patients can lead completely normal lives,” the specialist concludes.
Newsletter: 
