Hello, Thank you for asking at HCM. I went through your query and would like to make suggestions for you as follows: 1. Side effects of corticosteroids are numerous - obesity, hypertension, diabetes, cataract, glaucoma, reduced immunity, gastritis, reduced libido, osteoporosis, personality changes, etc etc. However, such side effects are more commonly seen with oral steroids. They are seen only with long term use of high dose inhaled corticosteroids. Gargling after each use also reduces absorption of steroids into body as you have been already doing. 2. Common side effects of inhaled corticosteroids are oral thrush, change in voice, local irritation, etc. 3. However, it is always preferable to try to reduce dose of inhaled corticosteroids as much as possible. Were I treating you, I would add montelukast in your regular treatment, which may reduce your inhaled cortcicosteroid requirements. 4. I would also suggest you allergy testing, which will help you identify the substances causing symptoms to you as well as to know the measures to avoid them. 5. Based on allergy testing, an Allergist-Immunologist may prescribe you allergen specific immunotherapy which works on immune system to gradually improve your allergy symptoms. 6. Regular breathing exercises and a healthy diet rich in vitamins & minerals (adequate amounts of green leafy vegetables, fruits, sprouts, etc) will also help you in a long run by improving your lung capacity and immunity respectively and thereby reducing inhaled corticosteroid requirements on a long run. Hope above suggestions will be helpful to you. Should you have any further query, please feel free to ask at HCM. Wish you the best of the health ahead. Thank you & Regards.