Any tips to avoid inhaler (Advair) sore throat? New to inhaler use

Posted by annewoodmayo @annewoodmayo, Jul 8 1:00pm

Hi, everyone! I recently started using a daily inhaler (Advair) for the first time for newly diagnosed intermittent asthma. It works really well.

My throat has gotten really, really sore. I'm 90% sure that it is from the inhaler use, not from a virus or other cause. I have rinsed and gargled according to the instructions.

I'm really hoping that some "old pros" here might have some tips on how to avoid the sore throat. OR any other helpful tips and hints to avoid problems.

I would really appreciate any advice. The sore throat made me postpone my rheumatology medicine last month- can't take it if any signs of infection. It is creating some serious problems, pain and anxiety for me.

Please advise! Thank you very much!

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Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Jul 10 8:41am

In reply to @shar1120 "I was told the spacer is only for plain abuterol. Not sure if that is correct..." + (show)

The spacer is for all inhalation mists unless the directions say not to use one (I haven't seen any yet.) But it is not meant for the dry powders like Advair Discus - not sure why, pharmacist thought too much powder would cling to the device but wasn't sure either.

kspowell | @kspowell | Jul 11 9:07am

In reply to @shar1120 "I was told the spacer is only for plain abuterol. Not sure if that is correct..." + (show)

Hi the docs at National Jewish recommend spacers with all inhalers for asthma, etc.. if you get irritated in the throat from the inhaler..

fusion1 | @fusion1 | Jul 30 7:09pm

In reply to @kspowell "Hi the docs at National Jewish recommend spacers with all inhalers for asthma, etc.. if you..." + (show)

After rinsing and goggling eat a cracker or something. Really works well to ward off sore throat and yeast from the inhaled medicine.

hicopd | @hicopd | Jul 31 11:53am

Some inhalers like Qvar (inhaled steroid) specifically say NOT to use a spacer, so I follow the instructions.

I’ve been switched to a 3-in-1 inhaler, Trelegy. It works well for me, with no hoarseness. It’s a dry powder inhaler so you just take an inhalation, try not to cough, hold it for 10 seconds or so and then exhale and rinse your mouth.

rebeccabloch | @rebeccabloch | Aug 1 6:12pm

I've used Pulmicort, Brovana steroids), DueNeb and Albuterol.
I got a very bad sore throat with the steroid inhalers and ended up with complete loss of voice and vocal cord paralysis for weeks. After stopping all inhalers due to adverse reactions, I got some vocal cord therapy and regained some voice back, but still weak and hoarse.

annewoodmayo | @annewoodmayo | Aug 11 2:50pm

Thank you all so very much for your helpful advice!
I really appreciate your taking the time to reply and sharing your experiences.
Good karma heading your way 🙂