A Case Study on Long-Term Steroid Inhaler Use

When Mrs. RO Came to Us

Mrs. RO, a 70-year-old female, came to us with a long-standing history of reduced immunity, with low immunoglobulin (Ig) levels documented since 2007. She was a known case of bronchial asthma and had been using a steroid inhaler therapy continuously for approximately 37 years.

She also had cervical and lumbar spinal stenosis, which contributed to chronic neck and lower back discomfort. In addition, she had a history of chronic sinusitis, for which she had previously undergone surgical drainage.

Her treatment was planned with a focus on supporting her respiratory health, addressing chronic sinus symptoms, improving digestive comfort, and relieving musculoskeletal discomfort.

A Comprehensive Ayurvedic Treatment Plan

The treatment began with multiple sessions of Nasyam, an Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of medicated preparations through the nasal passages. This was combined with therapeutic facial massage to support sinus drainage and relieve congestion.

Rasnadi Choorna was also continuously applied over the forehead and sinus regions as part of the local treatment protocol to support relief from chronic sinus symptoms.

To address her gastrointestinal irritation, Matra Vasti and Picha Vasti were administered with the intention of soothing the gut and improving digestive comfort.

Alongside the therapies, internal medicines including Indukantham and Allerkhand tablets were prescribed based on her clinical response. These were incorporated to support the management of allergic symptoms and overall respiratory and immune health.

The treatment approach was adjusted according to her response, while also taking into consideration her long-standing history of asthma, chronic sinusitis, digestive complaints, and spinal discomfort.

Changes Seen After Treatment

After the treatment programme, Mrs. RO reported significant improvement in her overall condition.

She reported that she was able to discontinue the steroid inhaler she had been using continuously for nearly four decades, following her treatment.

She also experienced a marked reduction in gut irritation, improvement in her chronic sinus symptoms, and relief from lower back discomfort.

Overall, the patient reported improvements in her respiratory health, digestive comfort, sinus symptoms, musculoskeletal discomfort, and quality of life.

Clinical note: Inhaled corticosteroids are an important component of asthma management for many patients. Any reduction or discontinuation of prescribed inhaler therapy should be undertaken only under appropriate medical supervision. This case represents an individual reported outcome and should not be interpreted as a recommendation to stop or reduce prescribed asthma medication.