Asthma, also called bronchial asthma, is a chronic lung condition that affects more than 23 million Americans, including 7 million children, according to the American Lung Association. Bronchial asthma occurs when the airways of the lungs swell, the bronchial muscles tighten and mucus builds up in reaction to allergens, exercise, viruses and other triggers. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Although there is no cure for asthma, people with asthma can manage their symptoms and prevent flare-ups with proper medication and avoidance of triggers.
Corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used long-term medications to prevent asthma attacks. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as corticosteroids act on the lung tissues to reduce swelling and open the airways, allowing air to pass through better. Inhaled corticosteroids include the brand-name Flovent, Azmacort, Vanceril and Aerobid. Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone are used for people with severe asthma, either as long-term preventive medicine or short-term immediate relief. Side effects of corticosteroids include mild mouth and throat irritation and oral yeast infections.
Leukotriene Blockers
Leukotriene blockers or modifiers prevent the action of leukotrienes, chemicals that cause asthma symptoms, open the airways and prevent inflammation. Leukotriene blockers, which include the brand-name products Singulair, Accolate and Zyflo, are commonly used to control the symptoms associated with persistent asthma, often in combination with corticosteroids. Leukotriene blockers have been linked to psychological reactions in some people.
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators open up the airways and reduce swelling during asthma attacks. They are also used to treat exercise-induced asthma. Bronchodilators are often directly inhaled into the lungs and can relieve symptoms within minutes for up to six hours; hence they work best as short-acting quick-relieving medications. The use of bronchodilators, which include the products Albuterol, Maxair, Proventil and Xopenex, may be combined with corticosteroids for long-term asthma treatment. Common side effects of bronchodilators include headache, nervousness, trembling and rapid heartbeat.
