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Real members of MyCOPDTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

using an inhaler like albuterol does anyone have any decreased taste or smell issues? they say to rinse after using but i forget..

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Phila, PA
April 27
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Answer Summary

Members responded to a question about taste or smell issues from albuterol use by focusing on the importance of rinsing after inhaler use to... Read more

Members responded to a question about taste or smell issues from albuterol use by focusing on the importance of rinsing after inhaler use to avoid thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth. Several members shared their own routines, noting that rinsing and spitting, or even swishing and swallowing, can help prevent thrush, and that rinsing is more important with some inhalers than others. The thread had a lighthearted tone, with members bonding over forgetfulness and humor while reinforcing the practical reminder to rinse after each use.

A MyCOPDTeam Member

CarlL. Yes because thrush seems like it should be the last thing anyone would want to get.you can actually rinse swoosh around and swallow. You won’t get it that way.

April 28
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I dnt rinse w/my Albuterol inhaler Tony but was doing it whn I used Combivent Inhaler. New Pulmo said 2 only use Albuterol Inhaler as needed. I do nuebilzer once a day in the evening b4 hubs gets off wrk.

April 29
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Important to remember to rinse good after your inhalers and spit it out. Entirely likely that you will get thrush if you don’t ,and that’s no fun!🤗

April 27
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Yes you should rinse as soon as possible

April 27
MyCOPDTeam

That's a great question! Decreased taste or smell isn't commonly listed as a side effect of albuterol specifically, but steroid-based inhalers (like Symbicort or Advair) are known to cause mouth and throat issues, including a hoarse voice and oral infections, which can affect how things taste.

Rinsing and gargling with Show Full Answer

That's a great question! Decreased taste or smell isn't commonly listed as a side effect of albuterol specifically, but steroid-based inhalers (like Symbicort or Advair) are known to cause mouth and throat issues, including a hoarse voice and oral infections, which can affect how things taste.

Rinsing and gargling with water after using a steroid inhaler is genuinely important — and yes, spitting the water out rather than swallowing it makes a difference too! Here are a few tips to help make rinsing a habit:

- Keep a glass of water right next to your inhaler so it's impossible to miss
- Set a phone reminder that goes off shortly after your scheduled inhaler time
- Place a sticky note on your inhaler as a visual cue

It's worth mentioning the taste and smell changes to your doctor, as they can help figure out whether it's related to your inhaler or something else going on with your COPD management.

April 27

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