An estimated 16.4 million Americans have asthma, according to 2009 information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Asthma is a chronic condition in which a person's airways become swollen and over-produce mucus, making it difficult to breathe, according to the Mayo Clinic. Asthma is not curable, but can be effectively treated with various approaches. The common signs of asthma are shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. A person who experiences these signs should talk with a doctor about the best treatment to control her asthma.
Avoidance
The National Hearth, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) states that the first approach to treat acute asthma is to avoid possible irritants that can aggravate the condition. Allergies to pollen, pet dander or various foods such as nuts or dairy products, are common triggers. If a person is allergic to cats, he should not own one, and should take a shower and wash his clothing if he does come in contact with a cat. Other irritants a person with acute asthma should avoid are cigarette smoke and air pollution, as these can aggravate the airways.
Fast Medications
Fast-acting medications help to relax the lungs and reduce mucus build-up in them, according to the Mayo Clinic. These medications are usually administered directly before and after exercise to prevent an asthma attack. Inhalers such as beta agonists and ipratropium are prescribed to prevent and treat an asthma attack. Inhalers should be used as prescribed and for no other purpose. Corticosteroids are used either orally or intravenously to reduce inflammation in the airways, but are not recommended for long-term use, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Long-Term Medications
The NHLBI states that most people with acute asthma are prescribed long-term medications that reduce the chances of a an asthma attack. Most long-term medications come in the form of an inhaler and are taken on a daily basis. These include corticosteroid inhalers, beta 2-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, cromolyn, nedocromil and theophylline, according to the NHLBI.
Allergy Shots
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) recommends that a person with allergy-induced asthma consider allergy shot treatment to reduce asthma attacks. Allergy shots are used over a few years and work by desensitizing the immune system to the allergen it is fighting. For example, if a person is allergic to dust mites, a small amount of dust mite protein is injected into on a weekly basis. Slowly the amount of the substance is increased, causing the immune system to become more tolerant.
