Why Needing Systemic Steroids for Asthma Is a Warning Sign

Welcome to the latest episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast. This episode is about corticosteroid medicine for asthma given as pills or an injection. Doctors call this systemic steroids because it impacts the whole body. If you need this medicine often, it can be a sign that your asthma is not under control.

Payel Gupta, MD and Kortney, a patient advocate, are joined by Wes Sublett, MD, an allergist and immunologist. Together, they explain the differences between an asthma flare and exacerbation. They discuss why taking pills (called oral corticosteroids, or OCS) or a short of steroid medicine is a warning sign rather than a simple fix. They review other asthma treatments that can help keep you out of the ER.

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Listen to Systemic Steroids Asthma Warning Podcast

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Thank you to AstraZeneca for sponsoring this podcast episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Key Takeaways About Steroid Medicine and Asthma Control

Many people think having difficulty with asthma is normal. But needing steroid medicine, even once, can be a sign that your asthma needs a better treatment plan.

  • A pill or shot of steroids for asthma is a warning sign. This may mean that your daily asthma medicine may not be working well enough.
  • Know the difference between a flare-up and an attack. A flare-up is when your symptoms get worse for a short time. A true asthma attack is when your quick-relief inhaler cannot bring your breathing back to normal.
  • Steroid medicine has real risks. Taking steroids again and again can weaken your bones, raise your chance of getting diabetes, and harm your eyes over time.
  • Your specialist may not know you went to the ER. Emergency rooms and urgent care clinics do not always tell your main asthma doctor that you were there. It is up to you to share that information.
  • There are other options. Inhalers that combine more than one medicine and newer treatments called biologics can lower your need for steroid medicine.

Timestamps From our Episode About Steroid Medicine and Asthma Control

02:45 – What is asthma?

05:25 – What “risk” means when you have asthma

07:18 – The difference between a flare-up and a bad asthma attack

14:39 – When a doctor gives you steroid medicine

17:10 – When asthma patients are at the highest risk

20:10 – How steroid medicine and ER visits are linked

28:08 – What medicines are available to treat asthma?

30:50 – What is an inhaler with three medicines inside it?

34:50 – Is needing steroid medicine a sign you should see an asthma specialist?

More Resources About Steroid Medicine and Asthma

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