Although people who have asthma rely on long-term medication to prevent asthma attacks, quick-relief medicines relax tight muscles around the airways during sudden flare-ups, the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute explains. The medicine quickly opens the airways to allow for proper airflow. People who need quick-acting medication more than twice a week should consult doctors to see if changes to the overall control plan are necessary.
Bronchodilators
Asthma sufferers usually carry quick-relief inhalers, also called bronchodilators, in case of emergencies. However, fast-acting medication should not be used as a replacement for long-term control medication, which reduces inflammation, doctors warn. Children need to know how to use their inhalers and when medical care is necessary. School officials need to be aware of a child's asthmatic condition and the student's need to carry inhalers.
Inhaled Medicines
Bronchodilators quickly open airways to improve breathing when sudden symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath or coughing, occur. Patients may use bronchodilators before exercise when recommended by doctors. Inhaled medicines include short-acting beta agonists, according to MayoClinic.com. They usually clear airways within minutes and provide relief for several hours. Beta agonists include albuterol, pirbuterol and levalbuterol. Doctors may prescribe another inhaler, ipratropium, often used for emphysema and chronic bronchitis patients.
Corticosteroids
Severe asthma attacks may require corticosteroids, administered orally or intravenously, such as methylprednisolone and prednisone. The attacks usually call for immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include extreme breathing difficulties, noticeable anxiety from shortness of breath, sweating or rapid pulse rate. Some asthma sufferers have a bluish color in the face and lips or show signs of confusion or drowsiness during an attack. Tightness or pains in the chest, abnormal breathing patterns or nasal flaring may also require emergency treatment, MedlinePlus states.
Peak Flow Meters
Asthma patients who suffer severe attacks may need to be hospitalized for monitoring, medication and oxygen treatment. Doctors may discuss situations with asthma patients to see if treatments should be adjusted. Along with long-term control medications to help prevent acute attacks, patients may benefit from peak flow meters. The devices measure the quickness of air moving out of the lungs and help determine if attacks are coming and when medication is necessary.
Injections
Doctors use additional treatment for sudden asthma attacks triggered by allergies. Patients can receive allergy shots once a week or month to reduce the immune reaction to triggers. Medications in the form of injections or nasal sprays also help to boost the immune system.
