Asthma inhaler: overuse is dangerous.

Nonprescription inhalers can provide relief for many of the nation's 8,000,000 asthma sufferers whose symptoms are mild, but these popular devices can be dangerous if used continually, warns Abba 1. Terr, a Stanford University Medical Center allergist. Regular use of the devices may mask serious problems that remain untreated. even though symptoms are relieved, Continued reliance also may build up a tolerance, reducing their effectiveness and, in some cases, making the condition worse.

"In recent years, we've been noticing an increase in serious problems and even deaths from asthma. Some of these situations have been linked to excessive reliance on inhaled bronchodilators, both nonprescription and even certain prescription forms. In a sense, these inhalers work too well. They give sufferers a false sense...