Consultation on Tracheal Medications for Lung Health Concerns

Q: Consultation on Tracheal Medications for Lung Health Concerns

Hello： If everything is normal and there is no improvement after taking the medication, you should stop taking it.

Tracheal-related medication consultation?

Dr.
Wu, your response is as follows: Have you undergone pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity? If there is obstructive lung disease, inhalers can be used instead of oral medications.
My reply: I have had pulmonary function tests, an electrocardiogram, and a chest X-ray done in the pulmonology department, all of which were normal; my lungs are functioning well (last year, the cardiology department also confirmed that my heart is normal).
After taking the seven-day course of Serevent and Combivent prescribed during my first visit, I did not notice much difference, so after my second visit, do I still need to take the one-month supply of Serevent and Gaviscon? I am confused and grateful to the doctor!
Hello, my 70-year-old mother, who weighs 78 kg and has not smoked for over 20 years, has been feeling short of breath for the past couple of years.
She gets breathless after climbing three flights of stairs.
Last year, she visited a cardiologist who said her heart was fine but noted that her blood was somewhat thick, so he prescribed aspirin and a stomach medication.
This year, during her visit to the pulmonology department, the doctor prescribed Serevent and Combivent during her first consultation.
In her second visit, the doctor said her lungs were fine.
My mother reported that the previous medications caused discomfort in her stomach and chest, so the doctor added a one-month supply of Serevent and Gaviscon.
I would like to ask the doctor, if both her heart and lungs are normal, is it necessary to continue taking Serevent? My mother is already on medication for high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and I am concerned that she might be taking too many medications.
I was not able to accompany her during her second visit, so I am asking here.
Thank you.

Xiao Huai, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/06

Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology

Hello: If everything is normal and there is no improvement after taking the medication, you should stop taking it.

Reply Date: 2023/06/06

More Info

When it comes to managing lung health, especially in older adults with a history of respiratory issues, it is crucial to approach medication use with caution and a thorough understanding of the potential benefits and risks involved. Your mother’s situation, given her age and existing health conditions, requires careful consideration of her medication regimen.

Firstly, it is important to clarify the medications mentioned. 善寧 (Salmeterol) is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) used to help open the airways in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 康速龍 (Budesonide) is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that helps reduce inflammation in the airways. Both of these medications are commonly prescribed for managing chronic respiratory conditions.
Given that your mother has undergone lung function tests, chest X-rays, and cardiac evaluations, and all results were normal, it suggests that her respiratory symptoms may not be due to a significant obstructive lung disease. However, the sensation of breathlessness, especially during physical exertion like climbing stairs, can still be concerning and may be influenced by various factors, including anxiety, deconditioning, or even side effects from medications.

If your mother has reported discomfort in her chest and stomach after taking the medications, it is essential to communicate this to her healthcare provider. Side effects from inhaled medications can include throat irritation, cough, and gastrointestinal discomfort, especially if the inhalation technique is not optimal. It may be beneficial to reassess her inhalation technique or consider alternative medications that may be better tolerated.

Regarding the continuation of 善寧 (Salmeterol), if her lung function tests are normal and she is not experiencing significant benefits from the medication, it may be reasonable to discuss with her physician whether it is necessary to continue this medication. The decision to stop or continue should be based on a thorough evaluation of her symptoms, her response to the medication, and any side effects she may be experiencing.

Moreover, the concern about polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications) is valid, especially in older adults. Each additional medication can increase the risk of drug interactions and side effects. It is crucial to regularly review her medication list with her healthcare provider to ensure that each medication is necessary and that there are no overlapping effects or contraindications.

In summary, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult with her healthcare provider: Discuss her current symptoms, the side effects she is experiencing, and the necessity of continuing her current medications. A medication review can help identify any unnecessary drugs.

2. Monitor her symptoms: Keep track of her breathing difficulties, especially during physical activities. This information can help her doctor make informed decisions about her treatment plan.

3. Consider pulmonary rehabilitation: If she is experiencing breathlessness, a structured pulmonary rehabilitation program may help improve her exercise tolerance and overall lung function.

4. Evaluate lifestyle factors: Encourage her to engage in light physical activity as tolerated, maintain a healthy diet, and stay hydrated, as these can all contribute to better lung health.

5. Educate on inhaler technique: Ensure that she is using her inhalers correctly, as improper technique can lead to inadequate medication delivery and increased side effects.

In conclusion, while it is essential to manage her lung health with appropriate medications, it is equally important to ensure that she is not experiencing unnecessary side effects or complications from her treatment. Regular communication with her healthcare team will be key in optimizing her care.

Similar Q&A

Managing Long-Term Lung Medication: Concerns and Side Effects

Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding my mother. Recently, due to the cooler weather, her old conditions have resurfaced. She has a medical history of over ten years, including a previous bronchial rupture and pleural effusion. Lately, she has been frequently coughing, produ...

Dr. Ke Bowen reply Pharmacology
1. Hello! First of all, I would like to clarify that I am a pharmacist, not a physician. However, based on your question, I would like to provide some insights from a professional pharmacist's perspective, and I hope you find them satisfactory. Thank you! 2. The four medic...

Managing Medication Concerns for Elderly Patients with Lung and Heart Issues

Dr. Yang: My father, who is 83 years old, was hospitalized two days ago due to pneumonia caused by pleural effusion. He has a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, and he was cured of tuberculosis over forty years ago. He uses an oxygen concentrator ...

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Jun: This hospitalization may be related to infection or heart failure. In principle, the attending physician will determine the medication based on the severity and urgency of the condition. Some medications that are usually taken may affect heart rate or blood pressure, w...

Managing Tracheal Stenosis and Aspiration Pneumonia in Young Adults

My son is currently 20 years old and has been experiencing tracheal stenosis, which is compressing the esophagus and causing aspiration leading to aspiration pneumonia. He has had high fever and recurrent fever episodes. Although he has been hospitalized and treated with 9% salin...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Since you are already hospitalized, please discuss with your attending physician based on clinical symptoms, laboratory data, and past medical history. 2. Due to tracheal stenosis compressing the esophagus, which caused aspiration leading to pneumonia, it is presumed that th...

Understanding Chest Examination: Insights for Allergic Rhinitis Patients

I have a history of allergic rhinitis, but this morning I felt discomfort in my breathing, particularly in the throat and chest area. However, I had a chest examination in April that showed no issues. I understand that taking allergy medications cannot prevent a cold. Currently, ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The medication for allergic rhinitis can be continued. If you continue to experience difficulty breathing, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist or a pulmonologist for further evaluation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ...