Asthma

What are the treatments for the disease?

Successful treatment of asthma involves two important factors:

Avoiding known irritants is key to controlling asthma. Avoid anything that one can see or smell in the air, especially cigarette smoke, dust, and strong chemical odors. Many people with asthma also have allergies. Allergic reactions can trigger an asthma flare-up. Avoiding things that cause the allergies, called allergens, is important. Controlling allergies with appropriate medicine or allergy shots can often improve asthma symptoms.

Medicines for treatment of asthma include both quick-relief and long-term-control medicines. The healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate medicines for each individual. In general, the following principles are used:

Quick-relief medicines work within minutes. They prevent or help reduce the tightening of the muscles of the bronchial tubes. They are used when a person experiences an asthma attack or sudden shortness of breath. Short-acting beta-2 agonists, such as albuterol, are used for quick symptom relief. These medicines are usually taken through a metered dose inhaler or nebulizer.

Long-term-control medicines are taken on a regular basis to calm the airways and prevent symptoms. They are not effective for quick relief during an asthma attack. These medicines include:

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Short-acting beta-2 agonists and anticholinergics may cause the following side effects:

Corticosteroids have fewer side effects when given by inhaler than when they are taken orally. Side effects may include:

Long-acting beta-2 agonists may cause the following side effects:

Leukotriene modifiers may cause:

Methylxanthines may cause:

Cromolyn and nedocromil may cause:

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Effective treatment of asthma reduces inflammation and tightening of the airways, lowering the frequency of asthma attacks. Successful treatment allows people with asthma to enjoy life without significant breathing problems.

How is the disease monitored?

A person with asthma can monitor breathing at home with a device called a peak flow meter. Some people use peak flow meters every day and keep a record in their asthma diary. Airway changes show up on a peak flow meter before symptoms are even felt. Following the treatment plan at this time will often prevent an asthma attack from getting any worse.

Periodic pulmonary function testing can help guide the healthcare provider in prescribing medicines. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.