Asthma is a long-term condition that affects the breathing of millions of people worldwide. Living with asthma is not just about dealing with it when it gets bad. It means taking regular care to keep it under control. Asthma can limit your physical activity and lead to more doctor or hospital visits.
The good news is that treatments have come a long way and can help you stay healthier and more active. This article will explain your options for long-term treatment for asthma.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a condition where the airways in your lungs can become inflamed, swollen, and narrowed. This inflammation can lead to several symptoms, such as:
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
Not everyone has the same triggers for their asthma. They may include allergens like pollen or irritants like smoke. Stress and even exercise can also trigger an attack.
Medications can address sudden flare-ups. However, uncontrolled asthma results in ongoing irritation of the airways.
Long-term management focuses on preventing these problems. Rather than wait for symptoms, you can do things to keep your asthma under steady control.
A long-term approach can reduce flare-ups, improve quality of life, and minimize lung damage.
Options for Long-Term Treatment for Asthma
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for asthma treatment. Your doctor will likely recommend a combination of treatments tailored to your condition.
Below are the most common long-term treatment options for managing asthma.
1. Controller Medications
Controller medications are the backbone of long-term asthma treatment. They work by reducing airway inflammation, a key component of asthma.
Unlike quick-relief inhalers, these medications are not used to treat immediate symptoms. Instead, they must be taken daily to keep inflammation in check and prevent flare-ups over time.
Inhaled Corticosteroids
These are among the most effective medications for reducing airway inflammation.
Patients typically use inhalers to deliver the medication directly into their lungs.
Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs)
These bronchodilators help relax the muscles around the airways to improve breathing.
LABAs are often prescribed alongside inhaled corticosteroids.
Combination Therapy
Many patients benefit from using inhalers that combine corticosteroids and LABAs.
Combination inhalers tackle both inflammation and airway constriction. They offer comprehensive control over symptoms.
2. Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotrienes are chemicals that your body produces naturally, but they cause the symptoms of asthma. Leukotriene modifiers are medicines that either stop your body from producing them or reduce their effects.
The medicine prevents them from causing swelling and tightening in your airways. This makes it easier to breathe.
Leukotriene modifiers are not as strong as inhaled steroids. However, they can be a good choice if you want something different or to use along with your inhaler.
3. Biologic Therapies
Biologic therapies are special medicines that can help treat severe asthma when regular treatments do not work.
These medicines are called monoclonal antibodies. They target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
Omalizumab helps by blocking a protein called IgE that plays a role in allergies, which can make asthma worse. They lower the activity of certain white blood cells (called eosinophils) that cause swelling in the airways.
These treatments are given as shots or through an IV every few weeks. They can be expensive, but many people find them helpful in getting their asthma under control.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, may help people whose asthma is triggered by certain allergens. Immunotherapy treatment involves receiving regular small injections of a specific allergen.
Over time, it helps the immune system become less reactive, reducing the severity of asthma symptoms.
5. Lifestyle and Behavioral Strategies
Medication alone is not enough to keep asthma under control. Lifestyle adjustments play a critical role in minimizing triggers and maintaining overall lung health.
Avoiding Triggers
The first step of avoiding triggers is identifying them. Then, do your best to minimize your exposure to them.
For example, let’s say pollen is an issue. Air purifiers may help filter out some pollen. You can also prevent pollen from entering your home by keeping the windows closed. Face masks can also help reduce your exposure if you need to go outside.
Adopting an Asthma Action Plan
Work with your doctor to develop a personalized action plan as part of your long-term treatment for asthma.
This plan should include details about daily medications, early warning signs, and steps to take during an asthma attack.
Regular Exercise and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Exercise can sometimes trigger asthma. However, regular physical activity improves lung function. It can also help reduce inflammation when done correctly.
Aim to stay active but work with your doctor to identify safe activities.
Smoking Cessation
Smoking severely worsens asthma and should be eliminated. This applies to both patients and people around them, as secondhand smoke can also trigger attacks.
6. Monitoring and Regular Check-Ups
Asthma is a dynamic condition, meaning its severity and triggers can change over time. Regular check-ups with your pulmonary doctor are essential.
They can monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Tools like peak flow meters allow you to track your lung function at home and identify early warnings signs of flare-ups.
Effective Long-Term Treatment for Asthma in Austin, TX
Asthma is a condition that requires consistent management and expert care. Long-term treatment for asthma includes medications, lifestyle changes, and professional support. With the right combination of these, you can take charge of your asthma and enjoy life to the fullest.
Are you looking for the best team to guide you through long-term treatment for asthma? Trust Austin Pulmonary. Call our nearest pulmonary clinic today to schedule a consultation. Get started on your path to better breathing with the help of the best pulmonologist near you.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6424-asthma
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369660
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8278371/
