Asthma Medication

Excellent oral medications and inhalers like salbutamol and steroids give rapid relief in attacks. Inhalers are preferred as their action is mainly localized, thus reducing the wider side effects of oral drugs. The long-term object is to prevent attacks and preserve lung efficiency.

Immunotherapy can help some patient by desensitizing them to identified allergens. For the prevention the ideal way is to avoid a known cause of allergy (like dust, pets) and trigger factors. Avoid dust and pollution the best you can, e.g. by using a kerchief or filter mask outside and air-conditioning indoors. Boiling water in a pan adds humidity to room air. Promptly treat upper respiratory infections. Regular exercise - without overexertion - improves the lung condition and reduces both the intensity of attacks and complications and also lessens risk of upper respiratory infections that may trigger attacks.

Among drugs side effects - more likely with oral drugs than inhalers - are cramps, palpitations and dizziness, there are others too. Since you are likely to use medications continuously learn from doctors the possible side effects

An asthmatic must keep the inhaler or other medication handy wherever he goes.