Most treatments for asthma include steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs. Steroids, anti inflammatory drugs and drugs also give relief from asthma attack. Steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs reduce swelling and production of mucus, whereas drugs prevent asthma attacks.
INHALED STEROIDS FOR ASTHMA:
These are the most effective medications for controlling asthma to reduce mucus production and also to reduce inflammation in airways. Usage of inhaled steroids leads to:
- Reduced symptoms and flare-ups
- Better asthma control
- Reduced need for hospitalization
Remember that inhaled steroids prevent symptoms of asthma and that they do not give relief from prevailing symptoms. There is variation in the dosages of inhalers. For best results, use inhaled steroids daily. Improvement in the asthma symptoms can be noted in 1 – 3 weeks, if used daily.
Following are some inhaled asthma steroids for controlling asthma:
- Aerobid
- Flovent
- Asmanes
- Advair
- Pulminort
- Azmacort
- Symbicort
- Qvar
Inhaled steroids are available in the form of dry powder inhaler, nebulizer solutions and metered dose inhaler.
SIDE EFFECTS OF INHALED STEROIDS:
If taken in lower doses, inhaled steroids have less side effects. Hoarseness and thrush (yeast infection in mouth) may occur, if steroids are taken in higher doses. This is a rare condition. Rinse mouth, gargle with water after using inhaler and also use spacer device along with metered dose inhalers to prevent side effects. Anti fungal mouthwash can treat thrush.
Inhaled asthma steroids are safer for children and adults. Side effects with anti-inflammatory asthma inhalers are less. Health care practitioner prescribes the lowest dose that works effectively to control asthma in children and adults.
Most parents are concerned about providing steroids to their children. These inhaled steroids are not similar to anabolic steroids that athletes use to build muscles. There are several benefits of anti-inflammatory asthma inhalers of self-manage asthma.
