• Asthma is usually treated with inhalers which deliver medication directly into the lungs.
• Inhalers are often more effective if used with a spacer device, though some have an in-built delivery system and a spacer is not needed- it’s worth checking with a pharmacist if you’re unsure..
• An oral medications may also be used as a preventer.
• The treatment is categorised into Preventers (stopping you from getting asthma symptoms) and Relievers (treating Asthma symptoms when present):

Relievers:

• These are taken to relieve symptoms when they occur. They help to open up the airways and are also called bronchodilators
• If you have mild Asthma then this may be the only treatment you require.
• If you are need to take your reliever inhaler more than three times a week, then you may require treatment with a preventer inhaler.

Preventers:

• These are taken regularly to prevent symptoms of Asthma.

Steroid inhalers

• The most commonly used preventer is a steroid which works by reducing the inflammation in the airways.
• It may take up to 2 weeks for the steroid to build up their effect.
• They should be taken regularly to control your asthma.
• You should always rinse your mouth after taking your steroid inhaler.
• Long term use of steroid inhalers can cause low bone density.

Long acting bronchodilators

• These relieve symptoms for up to 12 hours after each dose has been taken.
• A long-acting bronchodilator may be needed if symptoms are not fully controlled by the steroid inhaler alone.

Combination medications

• Some inhalers may contain both steroid and long acting bronchodilators.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

• These block the effect of chemicals called leukotrienes which trigger asthma symptoms.
• This medication needs to be taken regularly to prevent Asthma.

If your Asthma remains poorly controlled then your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further assessment and management.