The Appropriate Use of Inhalers and Asthma Control

ma je kronična upalna bolest dišnih putova, čije se liječenje bazira ponajprije na primjeni inhalatorne terapije. Unatoč efikasnoj inhalatornoj terapiji problem kontrole astme kod velikog dijela bolesnika još je prisutan. Uzroci loše kontrole astme jesu brojni, međutim jedan od najvažnijih uzroka svakako je loša edukacija bolesnika i loša inhalatorna tehnika. U liječenju astme rabe se dvije velike skupine inhalera: DPI (dry powder inhaler) i MDI (metered-dose pressurized inhaler), svaki sa svojim specifičnim karakteristikama, prednostima i manama. Dosadašnje studije nisu pokazale značajnu razliku u kontroli bolesti ovisno o tipu inhalera koji se primjenjuje. Za kontrolu bolesti ključnom se pokazala pravilna inhalatorna tehnika. Edukacija bolesnika ključni je faktor u primjeni uređaja za inhalaciju, kao i u efektivnosti inhalatorne terapije. Neovisno o tome koji se inhaler odabere, edukacija od strane medicinskog osoblja bitna je u poboljšanju inhalatorne tehnike i konačno boljoj kontroli astme.Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory system whose treatment is primarily based on use of the inhalation therapy. However, even with an effective inhalation therapy, many patients have problems with asthma control. Although there are various reasons for inappropriate asthma control, one of the most signifi cant reasons is poor education about inhalation techniques. Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) and Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs) are the most commonly used delivery devices in asthma treatment. Each of them has specific characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Previous studies have shown no significant difference in disease control depending on a type of the inhaler used. This study will point out how a correct inhalation technique is crucial for disease control. Adequate and patient-friendly education has to be a key factor for the correct use of inhalers, effectiveness of the inhalation therapy and finally, better asthma control