Asthma Medication

What are the types of medications administered to a patient suffering from asthma?
(24 Jan 2008)

Asthma is characterized by an inflammation of the sensitive tissues lining the bronchial tubes of the lungs. This causes a build-up of mucous and tightens the muscles of the bronchial tubes, both of which cause difficulty in breathing and produce a characteristic wheezing sound. In addition, the inflamed tissues become very sensitive to external stimuli, such as airborne pollution or allergens, causing short-term but dangerous ‘asthma attacks’.

During these attacks, the bronchial tubes tighten to the extent that the patient may not be able to breath, causing death. Unfortunately, attack triggers are fairly common and varied, including airborne particles such as pollen, secondhand tobacco smoke, dust mites, and other pollutants. Some patients react to specific allergens, including certain drugs and chemicals, and foods such as peanuts and shellfish. Non-external factors (such as stress) have also been known to set off asthma attacks.

Even though nearly 300 million people worldwide are diagnosed with asthma, there is no cure for the condition. In fact, medical science has yet to identify what causes asthma to develop in a given individual. The general opinion is that inherited (genetic) factors play a major role, along with environmental conditions. Treatment is limited to a ‘defensive’ nature and tries to control asthma symptoms. There are two categories of drugs used, short-term medication that helps to deal with an asthma attack by dilating the constricted bronchial tubes, and long-term medication that aims to reduce and control the frequency of such attacks. Most short-term medication is delivered directly to the lungs in the form of an inhaler, including beta-2 agonists, which act within minutes. For serious, life-threatening asthma attacks, doctors may prescribe oral or intravenous corticosteroids. In long-term medications, doctors provide long-acting beta-2 agonists and other bronchodilator that help to reduce tissue inflammation and keep the airways dilated and relaxed. One major complication of asthma is the increased risk of contracting serious respiratory infections, including the H1N1 influenza virus, commonly known as swine flu. It is strongly advised that any asthma patient take annual flu shots and regular booster shots.

Apart from medication, patients need to ensure that they minimize exposure to potential attack triggers. Most airborne pollutants can be avoided by maintaining a clean, closed environment. In the case of any allergies, these should be identified in consultation with a doctor and avoided. While strenuous exertion can trigger an attack, it is important to maintain some exercise to keep the immune system strong. This also helps to reduce stress, another trigger of sudden asthma attacks.

answered by G M on 6 Apr 2010, 4:49:26

A Look at Medications Given for Asthma

Asthma is prevalent in both children and adults. People have asthma attacks each and everyday, some more severe than others. Because no two people are alike, there are several different types of medications that are used to not only help a person overcome an asthma attack, but also it used to help prevent asthma attacks altogether. In addition, the right kind of medication can also help prevent and subdue chronic upper respiratory symptoms, which can lead to serious asthma attacks.

Here is a look at some of the most popular medications given to asthma patients.

Anti-inflammatory medications: One of the most popular types of medications that is prescribed to asthma patients are called anti-inflammatory medications. This type of medications includes the popular Albuterol inhaler, and Prednisone. Both medications are used on a daily basis to help people that experience both swelling and respiratory issues. This type of medication works well because it can help the airways less sensitive and thus reducing the number of attacks.
Bronchodilators: This is another type of medication that is often used with all kinds of asthma patients. Medications such as this work by loosening the tight muscles around the respiratory airways. When a person experiences an asthma attack, this medication will open the airways and allow more air to enter the lungs.
Allergy medications: Many asthma patients take allergy medications on a daily basis. This is an effective way to treat asthma because many attacks are triggered by a wide variety of allergies. Those that suffer from allergy related asthma will react well to taking allergy medications. Even children can take over the counter as well as prescription allergy medication. Doctors know that when an allergy medication can help with asthma, then it is worth taking each and every day.

There are many other types of medications that can be used for asthma. If you suffer from asthma, then it is vital to talk to your doctor about finding the right kind of medication for your condition.

answered by A K on 24 Jan 2008, 6:07:02

Asthma Medication

What are the types of medications administered to a patient suffering from asthma? (24 Jan 2008)

What are the types of medications administered to a patient suffering from asthma?
(24 Jan 2008)