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Bronchial Asthma Remedy

Bronchial asthma is a disorder in which bronchial tubes become inflamed and constrict airways. Airways begin to produce extra mucus blocking air flow. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. Asthma is not curable, but treatment options are available to keep symptoms under control.

  1. Short-Term Treatments

    • Short-term medications, also called rescue medications, are used for quick relief of symptoms. Use albuterol, which is an inhaled medication, to relax constricted airways. Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist that relieves symptoms within minutes and lasts for four to six hours. Your doctor may prescribe ipratropium, another inhaled medication for fast relief of symptoms making breathing easier. Severe bronchial asthma attacks may need an oral or intravenous corticosteroid treatment such as prednisone. Treatments with steroids are for short-term use only because of their severe side effects. Take allergy shots if your asthma reacts to allergens. Shots are normally given once a week for two months, then once a month for three to five years gradually reducing your body's reaction to the allergen. Use short-term medications only as often as your doctor instructs. Keep a record of how often you use them so you can discuss this with your doctor as he may want to adjust your long-term medications.

    Long-Term Medications

    • Long-term medications include fluticasone and budesonide, which are inhalant corticosteroid medications. These inhaled steroids are at a lower risk of side effects than oral or intravenous steroids and can be used daily. Use long-acting beta-2 agonist inhalant medications such as salmeterol to reduce inflammation in airways. These medications are normally used with corticosteroids for persistent asthma symptoms. Take inhaled medications such as leukotriene to reduce mucus production in the airways. Theophylline is an oral medication taken daily that relaxes bronchial walls opening airways.

    Avoid Triggers

    • Avoiding triggers is the best relief for bronchial asthma. Use your air conditioner to reduce pollen inside the home. Keep windows closed during pollen season if you do not have air conditioning. Change filters in the furnace and air conditioner or have a professional do it for you. Filters need to be changed or cleaned once a year to keep indoor air clean. Cover your face when outside in cold weather as cold constricts airways and may worsen asthma symptoms. Hardwood floors are better than carpet for bronchial asthma sufferers and washable curtains help keep dust to a minimum.

      Discuss all asthma medications and preventive measures with your doctor.

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