Inhalers: What Are They, How Do I Use Them, Why Do I Need One?
Inhalers – also known as bronchodilators – are medications breathed through the mouth and into the lungs in order to help clear airways. For example, an asthma attack swells and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe and triggering symptoms like coughing and wheezing. An inhaler relaxes these tightened muscles surrounding the airway. Air then moves in and out with greater ease, and the person is able to breathe
Common Respiratory Issues in Older Adults FAQ
1A. Is asthma treated in older adults the same way it’s treated in children and young adults? Asthma can occur at any age. Older adults experience asthma, but are more likely to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. The CDC estimates that over 2 million persons 65 years old or greater have asthma, which is expected to rise to greater than 5 million by 2030. Asthma in the elderly is complicated by the fact
New Asthma Treatments: What Are Biologics?
Biologics are genetically-engineered medications made from the cells of living organisms and modified to target antibodies, inflammatory molecules, or cell receptors naturally occurring in humans. They target these molecules in order to suppress the inflammation which may trigger allergic diseases, such as asthma. A unique facet of biologics is their ability to target one specific molecule associated with the disease. This makes biologics a very precise therapy. If your asthma symptoms