Asthma Problem and solution
Asthma
Problem and solution
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways in the
lungs. It is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be
the result of a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and exposure
to environmental factors such as allergens, pollution, and respiratory
infections.
In people with asthma, the airways in the lungs become inflamed, swollen,
and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe. This inflammation and narrowing
can be triggered by a variety of factors, including exposure to allergens (such
as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander), exercise, respiratory infections,
and irritants (such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, and strong odors).
Some people may also develop asthma as a result of occupational exposure to certain substances, such as chemicals or dust. Additionally, certain factors such as obesity, stress, and hormonal changes may also contribute to the development or worsening of asthma.
Controller Medications
Also called long-term control medications or maintenance medications –
prevent asthma symptoms from happening by preventing airway inflammation.
You take them daily, and they can be inhaled or swallowed, as a pill or
liquid. Options include:
Combination inhalers: Corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists
Inhaled corticosteroids are the most common controller medications, usually given through an inhaler or nebulizer. They are not the same steroid drugs used by some athletes – corticosteroids are a safe and proven form of asthma treatment.
Rescue Medications
There are several rescue medications available for asthma that can provide immediate relief from symptoms during an asthma attack. These include:
1. Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs):
Examples include albuterol (ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA) and levalbuterol (Xopenex HFA). These medications work quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
2. Anticholinergics:
Examples include ipratropium (Atrovent HFA) and tiotropium (Spiriva). These medications also help to relax the muscles around the airways and can be used in combination with SABAs for more severe asthma attacks.
3. Systemic corticosteroids:
Examples include prednisone and methylprednisolone.
These medications are taken orally or by injection and help to reduce
inflammation in the airways, which can provide relief from symptoms.
People with asthma should work with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes both rescue and maintenance medications to manage their asthma symptoms.

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