1. What to Take and When
It's important to understand the difference between asthma medications. Some medications such as albuterol are classified as fast acting bronchodilators, which mean they open up the airways shortly after taking them. That type of medication is given to relieve acute symptoms. Longer acting bronchodilators are taken to keep the airways open long term. Other medications given to treat asthma are inhaled steroids, which decrease inflammation in the airways which occurs with asthma. Steroids are taken daily as a preventative treatment.
2. Asthma Medications Come in Different Forms
Some asthma medication are given via a nebulizer. The nebulizer creates an aerosol and the medication is inhaled. Asthma medication may also be given via a metered dose inhaler (MDI). This form of delivery is beneficial because an MDI is small and easily carried in a pocket or purse. Dry powered inhalers are also a way to take asthma medication. Some medications can be taken in either a nebulizer or an inhaler. However not all medications are available in all delivery forms.
3. Put Some Space Between it
If your asthma medication includes taking a metered dose inhaler consider using an aero-chamber also called a spacer. A spacer helps make using a metered dose inhaler easier and helps more medication get into your lungs instead of the back of your throat. Put the medication on one end of the spacer and place your lips around the mouthpiece. Push down on the inhaler to release the medication then inhale slowly.
4. Side Effects to be Aware of
Most medications have side effects and that includes asthma medications. Different categories of medications have different effects. For example inhaled steroids can cause a thrush infection in the mouth. Rinse your mouth after taking an inhaled steroid to prevent it from developing. Some common side effects from taking fast acting inhalers such as albuterol include, an increase in heart rate, nausea, nervousness and headache. Most people don't experience serious side effects that force them to stop taking their asthma medications.
5. Safe Asthma Medication and Pregnancy
It is not completely clear if pregnancy changes the frequency or severity of asthma symptoms. Some women report a decrease in symptoms, other women have an increase and still some women have no changes. If an asthma attack does occur fast acting asthma medication may need to be taken to prevent symptoms from becoming severe. Most doctors feel that fast acting bronchodilators are safe to take during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor regarding preventative and daily asthma medications such as steroids. Discuss the benefits versus the possible risks to determine what is right for you.
