Asthma is caused by problems within the immune system. In people who have asthma, certain things that are normally harmless, such as dust, smoke, cold air or even exercise, cause the immune system in the airway to have a sudden reaction. This leads to swelling and inflammation, which causes the airway to become constricted, making it difficult to breath. Asthma symptoms can be treated by reducing the inflammation or by relaxing the airway.
Step 1
Use inhaled bronchodilators. Many asthma symptoms are caused by the airways becoming narrowed. Certain medications can be propelled via the use of an inhaler directly into the lungs for short-term symptomatic relief. Albuterol and ipratropium are two medications that can be inhaled to relax the muscles around the airways.
Step 2
Use inhalable corticosteroids. Corticosteroids work to suppress inflammation and can be used for long-term asthma control. These corticosteroids include fluticasone, triamcinolone and budesonide.
Step 3
Take leukotriene inhibitors. These medications work by opening the airways, reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of mucus. Leukotriene inhibitors are usually inhaled and include the compound montelukast.
Step 4
Take theophylline. Theophylline typically is taken in pill form and needs to be taken only once a day (compared with inhaled medications, which may need multiple doses per day). Theophylline relaxes the smooth muscles around the airways, helping to prevent the airway from narrowing.
