Asthma is a common ailment that affects patients' respiratory systems and leads to wheezing and coughing and increases difficulty in breathing. Asthma is caused by an over-reaction of the immune system. In asthmatics, the immune system has a severe reaction to normally harmless stimuli, such as cold air, dust or pollen. This causes inflammation and swelling around the airways, leading to the symptoms of asthma.
Step 1
Take albuterol pills. Albuterol belongs to a class of drug known as beta-2 agonists. Albuterol is normally taken in an inhalable form, but it can also be prescribed orally as albuterol sulfate (marketed as VoSpire ER). Albuterol works to relax the airways, helping to relieve some of the symptoms of asthma.
Step 2
Take theophylline. Theophylline is a medication that can be taken as a daily pill. It works to help control asthma. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, helping the airways stay open.
Step 3
Take oral corticosteroids. Asthma is caused by an overactive immune system. Corticosteroids work by suppressing the immune system. Corticosteroids are typically given in aerosol form, but they can also be given orally, typically in the form of pills.
Step 4
Get immunotherapy shots. Many asthmatics have their symptoms caused by allergies. Allergies can be suppressed via the use of certain injectable drugs, which include omalizumab and others. These medications are usually administered every few months by a doctor.
