Oral manifestations in asthmatic patients using inhalation therapy – a review

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. The objectives of therapeutic interventions for asthma include prevention and control of symptoms, reduction in the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations, and reversal of airflow obstruction. Most asthma drugs are inhaled using various forms of inhalers or nebulizers. Inhalation has long been established as an effective way to deliver drug to the lungs, as inhaled medicines are delivered directly to the airways and allow a smaller dose to be administered leading to a quicker onset of action and fewer side – effects. High dosage and long duration of inhalation therapy has been closely linked with several adverse effects on oral tissues. Hence this review highlights the effects of inhalation therapy on oral tissues along with recommendations for prevention.