There are a few different options when it comes to treating asthma. What may work best for you will depend on your symptoms and how often you have asthma attacks. In some cases, asthma can impact your daily activities, whereas, for others, they may only see symptoms a few times a month.
AFC Urgent Care Burlington is here to help you live with your asthma. Our providers can help you understand your triggers, how to control your symptoms and the best treatment options. Visit our walk-in center today to begin receiving care for your asthma.
Different Types of Asthma Treatment
There are four types of treatment options when it comes to asthma. The type of treatment recommended to you will depend on the severity of your symptoms. Treatment options like these are not enough to maintain your asthma for some people. It’s critical to understand your triggers and avoid them.
Treatment options include:
- Quick-relief medicines are taken at the first sign of symptoms. They work quickly to relieve any sudden symptoms.
- Controller medicines are used to correct changes to the airways. This includes excess mucus or swelling.
- A combination of quick-relief medicines and controller medicines is often used for both short-term relief and long-term control.
- Biologics target a cell or protein to prevent swelling. They are often given through injectables.
Devices for Asthma Medications
Some asthma medicines are given through inhalers or nebulizers. This allows you to inhale the medicine directly into your lungs. Others are given in pill form, infusion form, or injectable form.
Inhalers
Inhalers come in four different forms:
- Metered dose inhalers - a propellant sprays out the medicine in a short burst.
- Dry powder inhalers - medicine is released when you breathe it in.
- Breath actuated inhalers - a dry powder or aerosol is released when breathed in.
- Soft mist inhalers - a cloud of medicine mist sprays out softly.
Nebulizers
Nebulizers turn asthma medicine into a mist. The mist is then inhaled through a mouthpiece. They can be prescribed by a doctor, or you can purchase one at your local pharmacy.
Injectables
Injectables are shots to treat asthma given every few weeks. They can be given at the doctor’s office or self-administered at home. They may also be given intravenously at the doctor’s office.
How Do They Work?
Asthma treatments work to relax the muscles in the throat that become inflamed when having an asthma attack. They also work to reduce swelling and excess mucus production. Certain steroids and bronchodilators can also be prescribed to help prevent severe attacks.
