Using the proper asthma medication, is crucial in controlling your asthma attacks. When having an attack your airflow is decreased and it can be quiet scarry at times. It can be controlled and you can lead a normal life with the right medication. Your physician will consider your age and symptoms when choosing a medication.
Anti-antiflammatory drugs are very useful in reducing swelling and mucus production in your airway. They help by making the airway to become less sensative, to things that trigger attacks. Depending upon whether you have chronic or short term asthma, the medications will vary. Chronic sufferers will need daily asthma medications while other’s will need short term relief.
Quick relief medication (rescue inhalers) help reduce symptoms when an attack is in progress. The persistance of a cough, wheezing, shortness of breath is your body telling you that an attack is onset. Using this medication gives you quick relief and opens up your airway, allowing oxygen to flow. Once inhaled it only takes minutes for it to take affect allowing your airway muscles to begin to relax. They are called short-acting bets-2 agonists (SABAs).
Long-acting beta-2 agonists(LABAs) are used in conjunction with other medications, to control moderate to severe asthma. They can last up to 12 hours giving much needed relief for people that are suffering from nighttime asthma. Moderate to severe asthma sufferers prefer these medications.
Leukotriene modifiers is a medication that block the action of leukotrienes, referred to as your immune system chemicals that cause your asthma symptoms to develope. They are used with inhalers to prevent an attack in older children and adults.
Oral corticosteroids are used to treat acute to severe asthma attacks, these medications can be prednisone, methylprednisolone, or hydrocortisone. They can cause short to long term side effects if taked for an extended period of time.
Once you have a plan of action to control your asthma, keep it close at hand, to share with family or trusted friends. Keep it in your wallet or purse, so you will know exactly what to do.
Also, keep regular appointments with your doctor to confirm your asthma medications are working best for you. Keep in mind, symptoms change over the course of time, and may need adjusting to fit your needs. The Asthma medications plan you choose, will be your most useful tool, to achieve the best control possible.