A cough after using an inhaler is a common experience. While inhalers deliver medication to improve breathing, they can sometimes trigger a cough, leading to concerns about effectiveness or underlying issues. Understanding why this happens can help individuals manage their respiratory health. This article explores reasons for inhaler-induced coughs and offers practical advice.
Common Causes of Inhaler-Related Cough
A cough after inhaler use can stem from medication properties or individual airway sensitivity. The physical sensation of spray from metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) can irritate the throat and airways, prompting a cough. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) may cause a dry throat sensation, also leading to coughing. Components like propellants or excipients (inactive ingredients) can also act as irritants.
Particle characteristics, including size and aerosol acidity, influence irritation. Smaller particles are less likely to irritate the upper airway, potentially reducing cough. Airway sensitivity or hyperresponsiveness, common in asthma, makes airways prone to reacting to stimuli, including inhaled medications. This sensitivity means even beneficial medication can trigger a temporary constrictive response.
Sometimes, a cough indicates the inhaler isn’t adequately controlling the underlying respiratory condition. Persistent cough can signal a need for medication adjustment. A rare but concerning reaction is paradoxical bronchospasm, where airways constrict instead of relax after bronchodilator use. Allergic reactions to inhaler components, though uncommon, can also cause coughing, along with other symptoms.
Optimizing Your Inhaler Technique
Improving inhaler technique can reduce coughing and ensure effective medication delivery. Proper breathing coordination is crucial: inhale slowly and deeply as you activate the inhaler. Rapid inhalation can cause medication to deposit in the throat instead of the lungs, leading to irritation and a cough.
Using a spacer device with metered-dose inhalers is beneficial. A spacer attaches to the inhaler, holding medicine in a mist for slower, more controlled inhalation. This reduces spray force and improves drug delivery. After using certain inhalers, especially corticosteroids, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. This removes residual medication, preventing irritation, hoarseness, and oral thrush.
Before each use, shake the inhaler vigorously to mix medication and propellant. For suspension MDIs, shaking prevents uneven doses from settled particles. Prime new inhalers or those unused for a period to ensure a full, accurate dose. Always check the expiration date, as expired medication may be less effective.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While some coughing after inhaler use might be an irritation, certain signs indicate a need for medical attention. If coughing worsens or does not improve despite adjusting your inhaler technique, consult a healthcare provider. New or worsening breathing difficulties, such as increased chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath, also warrant prompt medical advice. These symptoms could suggest an uncontrolled underlying condition or a more serious reaction.
Signs of an allergic reaction, including rash, hives, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing, require immediate medical evaluation. These reactions, though rare, can be severe. If your inhaler seems less effective or you need your rescue inhaler more frequently, discuss this with your doctor; this could indicate a change in your condition or a need for an updated treatment plan. Report any unusual side effects or persistent discomfort to your healthcare provider. Always communicate concerns with your doctor or pharmacist for appropriate and effective management of your respiratory health.