The treatment of asthma involves a combination of long-term control medications to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms, and quick-relief (rescue) medications to relieve symptoms during an asthma attack. Inhalers are the primary delivery method for these medications.
Key Asthma Treatments:
- Long-term control medications such as inhaled corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation and help prevent symptoms over time. Other options include leukotriene modifiers, combination inhalers containing corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists, and sometimes theophylline tablets. These medications are usually taken daily.
- Quick-relief (rescue) medications like short-acting beta agonists (e.g. albuterol) rapidly open airways during an asthma attack to relieve symptoms. They should be used at the first sign of symptoms.
- Reliever vs. Preventer inhalers: Reliever inhalers provide quick symptom relief, while preventer inhalers are used daily to control inflammation and prevent attacks.
- Identification and avoidance of triggers such as smoke, pollen, viral infections, and strong fragrances is important in managing asthma.
- Use of spacers with inhalers can help medication reach the lungs more effectively.
- Severe asthma may require additional treatments like oral corticosteroids, allergy medications (immunotherapy, biologics), or bronchial thermoplasty (a procedure to reduce airway muscle tightening).
Managing an Asthma Attack:
- Sit upright and try to stay calm.
- Use your reliever inhaler (e.g., albuterol) immediately.
- Follow your asthma action plan and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
Regular check-ups with healthcare providers ensure proper inhaler technique, medication adjustments, and updated action plans to keep asthma well- controlled, allowing a normal and active life. This comprehensive approach is supported by medical organizations such as the American Lung Association, WHO, and Mayo Clinic.
