Using the Advair Diskus

The Advair diskus inhaler can be used long-term or as maintenance for trouble breathing due to asthma, COPD, emphysema, or other lung disorders. It decreases swelling and relaxes the muscles used when breathing. However, it is not fast-acting, so you will need a fast-acting inhaler in case of an asthma attack. It is also frequently used in conjunction with another breathing medication.

My father moved on to using the Advair diskus inhaler after he found that taking Singulair was no longer beneficial. He is on a stronger dose and takes it two times a day to ease his emphysema. He doesn't necessarily notice any directly-related side effects, but it is noticeable when he doesn't take the medication.

If you go to the WebMD listing for Advair, you can find more information about the drug and its side effects.

Common side effects that occur when using the inhaler include throat irritation, hoarseness, headache, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, coughing, dry mouth or throat, upset stomach. Recommended treatment for these side effects is to suck on a sugarless hard candy, suck on ice chips, or chew sugarless gum, to make the salivary glands more active. Drink water or use a saliva substitute. Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler, taking care to not swallow the water.

If you find that the medication doesn't seem to be working as well anymore, or if you find that you have to use a fast-acting inhaler with more frequency, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Unlikely side effects include white patches on the tongue or in the throat, increased thirst, increased urination, persistent weight gain, vision problems, shaking, or severe muscle cramping. These side effects are considered serious and require medical attention.

Rare but very serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include the following: chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, slow heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, seizures.

Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. These require immediate medical attention.