Question 1

Where can I buy asthma and COPD treatments online in the UK?

Accepted Answer

You can safely buy asthma and COPD treatments, such as inhalers, online through regulated UK platforms like Mail my Meds. After completing a simple clinical consultation reviewed by independent prescribers, your medication is dispensed and shipped directly from a registered UK pharmacy.

Question 2

What is the difference between asthma and COPD?

Accepted Answer

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes reversible airway narrowing, often triggered by allergies or environmental factors. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is an umbrella term for progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, which involve permanent damage to the air sacs and airways leading to persistent airflow obstruction.

Question 3

What are the main causes of asthma and COPD?

Accepted Answer

The primary causes include genetic predisposition and long-term exposure to lung irritants. Asthma is frequently linked to a tendency toward allergies (atopy) or childhood respiratory infections. In contrast, smoking is responsible for approximately 9 in 10 COPD cases. Other factors include workplace exposure to dust or chemicals and high levels of air pollution.

Question 4

What are the main treatments for asthma and COPD?

Accepted Answer

Treatments focus on relieving immediate symptoms and preventing long-term inflammation. Reliever inhalers (like Salbutamol) rapidly open airways during a flare-up. Preventer inhalers use low-dose corticosteroids to reduce swelling over time. Combination inhalers and long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) are also used for daily maintenance.

Question 5

What are the common side effects of asthma and COPD inhalers?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects can include a mild tremor (shaking), a fast heartbeat, or a sore throat (oral thrush). To reduce the risk of oral thrush when using steroid preventer inhalers, it is highly recommended to rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth immediately after use.

Question 6

When should I seek emergency medical attention for asthma or COPD?

Accepted Answer

You should seek urgent medical attention if your reliever inhaler does not provide relief for at least four hours or if you are too breathless to speak. You should also see a GP for a review if you wake up at night with symptoms, use your reliever more than twice a week, or if your peak flow readings drop below your personal best.

Question 7

Can asthma go away or be completely cured?

Accepted Answer

Asthma cannot be completely cured, but it can go into long-term remission, particularly if it developed in childhood. However, the underlying sensitivity of the airways remains, meaning asthma symptoms can return later in life due to stress, illness, or environmental changes.

Question 8

Is COPD considered a disability in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, COPD can be considered a disability under the UK Equality Act 2010 if it has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Many patients with severe COPD are eligible for financial support, such as the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Question 9

What is the difference between a brown and blue inhaler?

Accepted Answer

A blue inhaler (such as Ventolin/Salbutamol) is a 'reliever' used for immediate symptom relief to rapidly open the airways during an attack. A brown inhaler (such as Clenil/Beclometasone) is a 'preventer' containing steroids that must be taken every day to reduce lung inflammation and stop symptoms from developing.

Question 10

Can stress or strong emotions cause an asthma attack?

Accepted Answer

Yes, strong emotions and psychological stress can lead to hyperventilation or rapid changes in breathing patterns. This can dry out or irritate the airways, triggering an asthma attack in sensitive individuals.

Asthma/COPD

More Information

An Overview From Our Superintendent Pharmacist

Where can I buy asthma and COPD treatments online?

What are asthma and COPD?

How prevalent are respiratory conditions in the UK?

What are the potential causes of these conditions?

What treatments are available for asthma and COPD?

What are the most popular treatments?

What are the common side effects?

What is it like to live with these conditions?

Who is suitable for these treatments?

Warnings and precautions

When should I see a doctor?

Lifestyle and risk factors

How do I start treatment?

Are there any non-medical treatments?

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Medically Reviewed By:

Rachael Clarke