Breathing Easier - Advice on Respiratory Conditions
Breathing Easier: A Pharmacist’s Advice on Managing Respiratory Conditions
Pharmacists often meet patients who are living with respiratory conditions—anything from short-term infections like bronchitis to chronic illnesses such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Whether the condition is temporary or lifelong, the goal is the same: help you breathe as comfortably as possible and reduce the risk of complications.
Respiratory health is something most people take for granted—until it’s compromised. The lungs are remarkable organs, but they can be vulnerable to infections, environmental irritants, and chronic inflammation. Here’s a pharmacist’s guide to understanding and managing common respiratory problems.
Understanding Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory conditions can be divided broadly into acute and chronic:
Acute respiratory infections include colds, influenza, bronchitis, and pneumonia. These usually develop quickly and may resolve within days or weeks, but can still be serious—especially in young children, older adults, or people with other health conditions.
Chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis are long-term and require ongoing management to prevent flare-ups
Each has its own cause and treatment, but many share common symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness
Recognising When to Seek Medical Help
Some respiratory symptoms can be managed at home, but others require urgent medical attention. As a general rule, see a doctor or visit an urgent care centre if you experience:
Sudden or severe shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
Blue or grey lips or fingertips
High fever with chills
Coughing up blood
Rapid breathing that doesn’t improve with rest
Even if you have a known condition like asthma, seek help if your usual medicines don’t seem to work or your symptoms are worsening.
Preventing Respiratory Illness
Prevention is always better than cure, and there’s a lot you can do to protect your lung health:
Vaccinations – Annual flu vaccines and the pneumococcal vaccine for eligible people reduce the risk of serious infections. COVID-19 boosters are also important for vulnerable groups.
Good Hygiene – Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid close contact with sick people.
Avoid Smoking and Vaping – These cause long-term lung damage and make you more susceptible to infections. If you smoke, talk to your pharmacist about quitting support.
Control Allergies – Allergic reactions can trigger asthma and other breathing problems. Identify your triggers and manage them with appropriate medication.
Stay Active – Regular exercise improves lung function and overall health, but if you have a respiratory condition, work within your limits.
Managing Acute Respiratory Infections
For viral infections like the common cold or flu, antibiotics aren’t helpful, but you can still treat symptoms:
Fever & Aches – Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.
Cough – Dry coughs may respond to soothing syrups or lozenges; productive coughs may benefit from expectorants to loosen mucus.
Congestion – Saline nasal sprays, steam inhalation, or decongestants can provide relief.
Fluids & Rest – Staying hydrated and resting gives your body the best chance to recover.
Always check with a pharmacist before starting over-the-counter medicines, especially if you have other health conditions or take prescription drugs.
Living with Chronic Respiratory Conditions
Conditions like asthma and COPD require a structured management plan, often involving daily medicines and lifestyle adjustments.
For Asthma
Always carry your reliever inhaler.
Use preventer inhalers exactly as prescribed, even if you feel well.
Learn how to monitor your peak flow and recognise early warning signs.
Avoid triggers such as pollen, dust mites, smoke, and certain chemicals.
For COPD
Take medicines regularly to reduce flare-ups.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes can improve breathing and stamina.
Avoid extreme temperatures, which can worsen symptoms.
Stay up to date with flu and pneumonia vaccinations.
Inhaler Technique – Many people don’t get the full benefit of their inhalers simply because they’re using them incorrectly. Your pharmacist can check your technique and suggest spacers or alternative devices if needed
Medication Safety and Advice
As a pharmacist, one of my key roles is ensuring that respiratory medicines are used safely and effectively. This includes:
Checking for Interactions – Some cold and flu remedies can raise blood pressure or interfere with other medicines.
Adjusting Doses – Inhalers, steroids, and antibiotics all have specific dosing schedules—sticking to them matters.
Minimising Side Effects – For example, rinsing your mouth after using a steroid inhaler can prevent oral thrush.
Reviewing Regularly – Medicines should be reviewed at least annually, or sooner if symptoms change.
The Role of Self-Management
Taking an active role in your respiratory health can make a big difference. Keep a symptom diary, follow your action plan, and attend regular check-ups. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up—sometimes a small adjustment to your treatment can prevent bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
Respiratory conditions can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your lung health. Pharmacist are not only there to supply medicines, but also to offer practical advice, check your inhaler technique, discuss side effects, and help you make informed decisions.
Your lungs work tirelessly for you—treat them well, protect them from harm, and seek help early when problems arise. Breathing is something we should never take for granted.