Inhalers are commonly prescribed for asthma sufferers.
According to the Mayo Clinic, asthma is a chronic illness that causes airway inflammation that constricts breathing. Although asthma is an incurable condition, its symptoms can be safely controlled and managed with anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators. Anti-inflammatories are used to prevent asthma symptoms. Bronchodilators are used for quick relief during asthma attacks.
Triggers
Allergies such as pollen, dust mites, foods and occupational chemicals, gases and fumes are common asthma attack triggers. Non-allergen triggers include exercise, tobacco smoke, respiratory infections and some medications, as well as emotional factors that include laughing, crying and stress.
Anti-Inflammatories
Long-term medications and inhalers are prescribed to prevent airway inflammation caused by your asthma triggers. Inhaled/oral corticosteroids, cromolyn, nedocromil, anti-leukotriene modifiers, theophylline and serevent are common controller medications. Such medicines are not addictive and are safe for daily use. Your doctor might prescribe controller medicines if you experience asthma symptoms more than once a week, have sleep interrupted by asthma complications, experience many asthma episodes, or need to use quick-relief inhalers daily.
Bronchodilators
For quick relief during an asthma episode, use rescue inhalers that contain atrovent, albuterol, levalbuterol, pirbuterol or ipratropium. If you need to use your rescue inhaler every day, you might require controller medications to prevent asthma symptoms. Call the emergency room or your doctor if you are still breathing fast and hard after using your quick-relief inhaler. Other signs that could indicate a more severe attack include extremely fast pulse or heartbeat, graying of fingers and lips, and difficulty walking or talking.
Over-the-Counter Drugs
The safest asthma medicines are those prescribed by your doctor. Avoid using over-the-counter inhalers if your doctor has diagnosed asthma. They are not as effective and might not stop asthma attacks.
Side Effects
Anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators come in sprays, pills, liquids, shots and powders. According to the American Lung Association, some asthma medicines can cause sore throat, nausea, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite and increased heart rate. Common oral corticosteroid side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, stomachache, headache, mood swings and difficulty sleeping. Long-term use of this prescription could also weaken your immune system, increase cholesterol levels, and result in brittle bones and cataracts. Consult your doctor if you experience rare side effects such as blurred vision, skin rash, muscle fatigue or cramps.
