For individuals with asthma, the bronchial airways are extremely sore and swollen making them especially vulnerable to irritants and allergies, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. During an attack, the airways constrict, making breathing difficult. This often accompanies wheezing, chest tightness and coughing. There are several treatments for asthma respiratory interventions, which help to prevent the onset of symptoms as well as bring relief to immediate attacks. Anyone who experiences asthma symptoms should contact a medical professional immediately for the necessary testing and treatment.
Inhalers
Physicians prescribe inhalers to provide long-term and short-term preventative and immediate relief for asthma sufferers. Corticosteroid inhalations such as budesonide, flunisolide, fluticasone and beclomethasone help reduce inflammation while controlling swelling and mucus production that make airways sensitive, according to the New York State Department of Health. Fast-acting inhalers such as albuterol and epinephrine aerosols are bronchodilators that immediately relax the smooth muscles around the bronchial airways to improve breathing during an asthma attack. Some inhalers combine corticosteroids and bronchodilators for preventative care, but studies show that this combination increases the risk of asthma-related death and worsening of symptoms, according to the Symbicort website.
Nebulizer Treatments
Nebulizer treatments are similar to inhalation treatments in that the same medications in liquid form apply but require the use of a nebulizer machine, which is an electrically powered machine that turns liquid medication into a mist for direct breathing, according to KidsHealth. MedlinePlus says that with a nebulizer, medicine goes directly to the lungs when a person takes slow, deep breaths for 10 to 15 minutes. Nebulizer treatments are especially effective for those with congestion when an inhaler cannot reach deep within the lungs. For daily preventative treatment, however, an inhaler is easier to use than a nebulizer, although some people prefer the mist.
Oral Steroids
For individuals with severe asthma or those experiencing an extreme attack, doctors prescribe oral steroids such as prednisone and prednisolone that course through the entire body, including the bronchial tubes, for optimal effect, according to the Partners Asthma Center. The steroids reduce constriction and inflammation for better breathing and usually work within a couple of hours. Generally, oral steroids require a short course as brief as three to four days, but are prescribed in some severe cases up to two to three weeks. Prolonged use of oral steroids can cause undesirable side effects such as unusual infections, high blood pressure, diabetes and gland shrinkage. Thus, doctors try to avoid this by shortening usage.
References
- MedlinePlus: Asthma
- New York State Department of Health: Corticosteroids
- Symbicort: Asthma and COPD Therapy
- KidsHealth: NebulizerNebulizer treatments are similar to inhalation treatments in that the same medications in liquid form apply but require the use of a nebulizer machine, which is an electrically powered machine that turns liquid medication into a mist for direct breathing, according to the KidsHealth. (see ref 4) MedlinePlus says that with a nebulizer, medicine goes directly to the lungs when a person takes slow, deep breaths for 10 to 15 minutes. (see ref 5) Nebulizer treatments are especially effective for those with congestion when an inhaler cannot reach deep within the lungs. For daily preventative treatment, however, an inhaler is an easier application than a nebulizer although some people prefer the mist.
