QuestionAge 73,no hypertension, diagnosed with Emphysema
8 Years Ago.%Oxygen in blood 94. Still walk a mile most days. Presently using Albuterol, Advent and Advair 500/50inhalers and Singulair. The advair
creates yeast growth in my throat and have great
difficulty controlling it with Nystatin. I have
tried Spiriva Handihaler for 90 days, did not seem to help my breathing but there was no yeast problem. Qvar 80 was used with the same yeast result. Is there an alternative to the
corticosteroids that i could use and not have the yeast problem? I am 5ft 6in. and weigh 130
lbs., smoked for 50 years and quit 9 years ago.
Thanks very much. glen
AnswerHi Glen,
Steroids provide a unique benefit to people with COPD. There is nothing that really substitutes for the inhaled type of steroids. There are oral, but the side effects can be severe and long term use can be hazardous. I trust that you vigorously rinse your mouth after use of the steroids. You can try oral Diflucan to try and eradicate the yeast and start over with a better oral hygiene program.
It would be best to stay on these if at all possible. I think Spiriva is still a good drug and should be used if possible.
