Is It Normal to Experience Coughing and Chest Discomfort After Inhaler Use?

Is it normal to experience worsened sleep, coughing, and a sensation of heartbeat and chest tightness when using a bronchodilator?

On July 13 of this year, I was diagnosed and have had a cough for over three weeks, accompanied by wheezing, choking cough, and a sensation of my heartbeat and chest tightness.
Additionally, I have started sneezing once a day, which I did not experience before the diagnosis.
On August 7, I took an over-the-counter product called Jinpai Jiulong San.
After August 21, I noticed significant improvement.
To ensure the condition of my lungs, I had an X-ray on August 16, which revealed white spots in my lungs.
That same day, I paid for a CT scan.
On August 23, the doctor informed me that the white spots were pulmonary nodules.
The doctor prescribed a bronchodilator and 60 mg of an allergy medication called Ailaiting.
From yesterday to today, I have used the bronchodilator three times, with two puffs each time (once in the morning and once in the evening).
As a result, I had very poor sleep quality last night, waking up frequently and unable to sleep soundly.
This morning, I started experiencing choking cough again, along with the sensation of my heartbeat and chest tightness, as well as coughing.
Should I stop using the bronchodilator? There is no family history of asthma in my household.
Additionally, the doctor advised me to undergo pulmonary function testing, stating that I should not wait until the bronchodilator is finished before getting tested, but rather do it while I am still using it.
Is this correct?

JIAO, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/24

Dr. Guo Hongyi reply Pulmonology

Dear public,
We recommend that you first confirm whether you are using the correct method for inhaling your medication.
You can search online for instructional videos on the proper inhalation technique.
If you continue to experience discomfort after using the medication correctly, it is advisable to return to your outpatient clinic and discuss your situation with your original treating physician.
Each individual's clinical condition is unique, and a diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention cannot be provided online.

Reply Date: 2023/08/24

More Info

Experiencing coughing and chest discomfort after using an inhaler can be concerning, especially after a recent respiratory illness. It is important to understand the potential causes and implications of these symptoms, as well as the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience coughing or chest discomfort after using bronchodilators, which are often prescribed in inhalers. These medications, such as the one you mentioned (likely a beta-agonist), work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. However, they can also lead to side effects, including increased heart rate, palpitations, and in some cases, coughing. This is particularly true if the medication is used excessively or if the individual has underlying respiratory conditions.

Given your history of a recent COVID-19 diagnosis and the subsequent symptoms you described, it is possible that your respiratory system is still recovering. The presence of wheezing, cough, and chest discomfort could indicate reactive airway disease, which can occur after viral infections. The "white spots" found on your X-ray, identified as pulmonary nodules, should be monitored closely, as they can sometimes be benign but may require further evaluation.

Regarding your use of the inhaler, if you are experiencing significant discomfort or worsening symptoms, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. Stopping the inhaler abruptly without medical guidance may lead to worsening respiratory symptoms. Your doctor may suggest adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication that may be better tolerated.

The recommendation to undergo pulmonary function tests while still using the inhaler is indeed correct. These tests can provide valuable information about how well your lungs are functioning and can help your doctor determine the best course of action for your treatment. It is essential to assess lung function while on the medication to understand its effectiveness and any potential side effects.

In summary, while it is not unusual to experience coughing and chest discomfort after using an inhaler, it is crucial to communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether these symptoms are a side effect of the medication, a result of your recent illness, or indicative of another underlying issue. Continuing with the pulmonary function tests as advised will provide further insights into your lung health and guide your treatment plan moving forward. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for your respiratory health.

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