Asthma, a chronic condition, is often triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches, mold, and cigarette smoke, as well as by exercise and emotional trauma in some patients. These triggers prompt the immune system to react as if the body were under attack, leading to inflammation of the airways and difficulty breathing. However, by being aware of and avoiding these triggers, you can play an active role in managing your asthma. Likewise, exploring common treatments for asthma will help you prepare and relief discomfort.
Let’s explore common treatments for asthma you can pursue.
Treatment for Asthma
Inhalation therapy is used both chronically to prevent episodes and to treat acute episodes.
Inhaled corticosteroids anti-inflammatory hormones, are the mainstay of chronic treatment. Patients may use them daily without seeing the side effects caused by oral corticosteroids. These medications include:
- Flovent (fluticasone propionate)
- Pulmicort (budesonide)
- Alvesco (ciclesonide)
- Qvar Redihaler (beclomethasone)
- Asmanex (mometasone)
- Arnuity Ellipta (fluticasone furoate)
Combination inhalers contain corticosteroids and beta-agonists, medications that help open airways. Examples are:
- Advair HFA (fluticasone-salmeterol)
- Symbicort (budesonide-formoterol)
- Dulera (formoterol-mometasone)
- Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate-vilanterol)
Leukotriene modifiers lower inflammatory molecules produced by white blood cells. A list of them includes:
- Singulair (montelukast)
- Accolate (zafirlukast)
- Zyflo (zileuton)
Theo-24 (theophylline) is a pill taken daily to relax airway muscles.
When an exacerbation does occur, the following rescue medications may be delivered through either an inhaler or nebulizer:
- Pro-Air HFA (albuterol)
- Xopenex (levalbuterol)
- Atrovent HFA (ipratropium)
- Spiriva (tiotropium)
Oral and intravenous corticosteroids are also used to treat acute episodes of asthma.
How QuickMD Can Help You Treat Asthma
In the case of a severe asthma episode, it’s essential to call 911. However, for routine management, QuickMD doctors are readily available to prescribe asthma inhalers and steroids online. This service allows you to receive medical assistance without having to leave the comfort of your home, ensuring your safety and convenience.
