Spiriva is the brand name for tiotropium inhalation, an anticholinergic agent doctors prescribe to treat conditions like emphysema, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It works by preventing the airways of the lungs from narrowing, making it easier for people with these conditions to breathe. Spiriva comes in a capsule, which contains a dry powder that patients inhale through a hand-held device.
Problems with Dry Mouth
Most people taking anticholinergic medications suffer from dry mouth, according to Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D. This may be due to the fact that these medications are inhaled. To help relieve this side effect, patients can chew on sugarless gum or suck on hard sugarless candy throughout the day, as doing so increases the flow of saliva. Sipping water frequently is another option, as is using a humidifier at night. Beverages containing caffeine, along with alcohol and tobacco, tend to make a dry mouth worse; therefore, it helps to avoid these products.
Experiencing a Sore Throat
MayoClinic.com explains that patients may experience a sore throat when using Spiriva. A common symptom of the common cold or upper respiratory infection, this side effect often causes discomfort or pain upon swallowing. It can also leave the throat feeling dry and scratchy. To relieve this pain, patients can use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, throat lozenges or sprays. Gargling with warm salt water may also help, as can sucking on hard candy. Should this problem persist or worsen, it is important to speak to the doctor, as he may choose a different treatment with fewer side effects.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis, or sinus infection, occurs when the nasal passages become inflamed and irritated. It can come on suddenly and last for a short time, or be a chronic condition and last long term. When referring to sinusitis as a side effect of Spiriva, it is generally an acute condition. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, face pain, pain in the teeth or ears and thick, and mucus drainage that is yellow or green in color.
Urinary Tract Infection
PDRhealth states that one of the most common side effects is a urinary tract infection, which can occur in the kidneys, urethra, ureters or bladder; these areas all comprise the urinary tract. The most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are painful urination, a frequent urge to urinate and urinating only a small amount. Patients taking Spiriva who experience this problem need to report it to their doctors immediately, as antibiotics are necessary to clear the infection.
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