Asthma can be serious condition for many patients afflicted with it. Occuring when airways become narrow and swell, simultaneously producing mucous, asthma can make it incredibly difficult for individuals to breathe. Not only can asthma cause shortness of breath, but it may also produce symptoms such as coughing, tightness in the chest and wheezing. While some cases may be significantly milder than others, in those other cases asthma may be debilitating and even life-threatening. Symptoms and severity of those symptoms may vary. Although asthma can not be cured, the symptoms of asthma may be controlled effectively through a variety of medications and home remedies. If you have asthma or are concerned about asthma, you can talk to your doctor about any of the top asthma treatments. Read on to learn more about what the top asthma treatments can do for you.
Top Asthma Treatments:
- Inhaled Corticosteroids
- Leukotriene Modifiers
- Dulera
- Exercise
Inhaled Corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids such as Flonase and Alvesco are a type of anti-inflammatory drug. Delivered through the use of an inhaler, these medications are relatively easy to use. However, it may take several days of use before patients see a benefit. Nevertheless, the side effects of inhaled corticosteroids versus oral corticosteroids are relatively minimal.
Highlights:
- Taken through an inhaler
- Low risk of side effects
- May take a while for results
Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers are oral medications that are a perfect choice for those that don’t like inhalers and prefer taking pills. Leukotriene modifiers like Accolate can relieve asthma symptoms for up to 24 hours. Medications come in 10mg or 20mg tablets. Side effects for this medication are rare. However, there may be some uncommon psychological reactions such as aggression, depression and hallucinations.
Highlights:
- Comes in the form of 10 or 20mg tablets
- Can work for up to 24 hours
- Side effects are rare
Dulera
Dulera is a combination inhaler composed of two different medications: formoterol and mometasone. This combination medication contains a long-acting beta agonist and a corticosteroid that work together to reduce asthma symptoms. One issue with this medication, along with any long-acting beta-agonist, is that it can increase your risk of a severe asthma attack. So those prone to severe asthma attacks may want to avoid this type of medication.
Highlights:
- Can increase risk of severe asthma
- Uses two proven asthma treatments
- Delivered through an inhaler
Exercise
Exercise can have a number of benefits for patients with asthma. While exercise can be more difficult for asthma patients, it is still just as important for them as anyone else. By strengthening the heart and lungs, you can reduce asthma symptoms. Additionally, inevitable weight loss can help as well, especially for those who are overweight, as being overweight can worsen symptoms.
Highlights:
- Can strengthen lungs and heart
- Can reduce weight that affects asthma
- Everyone needs exercise regardless
Conclusion
If you have asthma or are concerned about asthma talk to your doctor about any of these medication options. Many of these top treatments for asthma have worked wonders on many patients with varying degrees of asthma severity and can work for you too. While asthma cannot be cured, the symptoms can be controlled, greatly improving your quality of life.