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In the realm of medical treatment, the rise of Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome has become a significant impediment, particularly in the management of asthma, warn experts at King George’s Medical University (KGMU).
According to specialists at KGMU’s respiratory critical care unit, patients, particularly those with higher education levels, often fall victim to misinformation found online, especially regarding the use of steroids, which can deter them from seeking proper treatment. Professor Rajendra Prasad, former head of respiratory medicine at KGMU, noted that on average, two to three patients per week resist steroid prescriptions for asthma due to incomplete or misleading internet knowledge.
“Steroids, when prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals, constitute the most effective treatment for asthma,” emphasized Professor Prasad.
Head of the respiratory critical care department at KGMU, Professor Ved Prakash, drew attention to the alarming statistic that approximately 1.9 lakh individuals succumb to asthma-related complications annually in India. He stressed the significance of raising awareness and ensuring accurate diagnosis, particularly in regions where poor air quality exacerbates asthma symptoms.
Professor Sumit Rungta of KGMU’s medical gastroenterology and dermatology department underscored that while asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with appropriate medical guidance.
Highlighting a concerning trend, experts at KGMU revealed findings from a survey conducted by the Department of Respiratory Medicine, indicating that around 60 percent of 500 asthma patients were found to be using inhalers incorrectly. Improper inhaler usage compromises the delivery of medication to the lungs, potentially impacting asthma management.
Consequently, patients may be prescribed higher medication dosages, leading to increased frequency (two to three times a day) due to perceived inefficacy, when once or twice daily usage might suffice with proper technique.
Experts cautioned that incorrect inhalation techniques may necessitate the need for separate inhalers for approximately 10 percent of patients.
Furthermore, specialists stressed the importance of thorough mouth cleaning after inhaler use to manage respiratory diseases and prevent dental complications. They outlined key steps for effective inhaler usage, including shaking the inhaler before use, exhaling fully before administration, holding the inhaler in the correct position, inhaling deeply while dispensing the medicine, holding the breath for at least five seconds, and shaking the inhaler between puffs if applicable.
The emergence of IDIOT syndrome underscores the critical need for reliable sources of medical information and the importance of patient education to ensure optimal asthma management and improved health outcomes.
