Many people skip their daily controller inhaler because they do not feel sick. But asthma can still be active even when you do not feel it. The lungs can stay swollen without showing quick signs.

Using a rescue inhaler too much, or using it by itself, can be unsafe. It is linked to bad asthma attacks, ER visits, and even death. A rescue inhaler helps you breathe fast, but it does not fix the swelling inside the lungs. Without a controller inhaler, asthma can get worse quickly.

Using both inhalers the right way keeps you safer and helps you breathe better.

Rescue inhalers

Rescue inhalers are used for quick help during an asthma attack.

  • Starts working in minutes and lasts 4–6 hours.
  • Gives quick relief but does not fix lung swelling.
  • Using only a rescue inhaler can be dangerous because it hides warning signs.
  • Using a rescue inhaler for more than 2 days a week is a sign that your asthma is not well-controlled, and you should talk to your doctor about using a controller medicine.

What is a rescue inhaler?

A rescue inhaler is a medicine you use when you need something quick to help you with your breathing. It works by relaxing the muscles around your airways. When the muscles relax, the airways open wider. This makes it easier to breathe. You should feel it working in less than 15 minutes.


What are the risks of using only a rescue inhaler?

Rescue inhalers work fast, but they do not fix the swelling inside the lungs.

If you only use a rescue inhaler:

  • Your lungs may stay swollen.
  • Asthma can get worse without warning.
  • You may have a higher chance of a serious attack.

Controller inhalers

Controller inhalers are used daily to prevent symptoms and keep asthma under control.

  • It takes days or weeks to start working.
  • Helps prevent asthma attacks.
  • You may not feel it working right away, but it helps your lungs stay healthy over time.
  • Less use of a rescue inhaler is a good sign that your controller medicine is working.

What is a controller inhaler?

A controller inhaler is daily medicine that keeps your lungs from getting swollen and tight. It also helps cut down the mucus in your airways. This medicine works slowly, so you must use it every day, even when you feel fine.

Stopping your controller inhaler can make asthma attacks more likely. Over time, controller inhalers help your lungs work better and help you stay out of the ER.

Sources:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/asthma-inhalers-2633190

https://www.med.unc.edu/medicine/uncaap/education/inhalers/rescue-vs-controller-inhalers

Information current as of: