Blog

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, which causes various respiratory symptoms, such as cough, difficulty breathing, chest tightness and wheezing. It is one of the most common chronic diseases of the respiratory system. According to the World Health Organization, more than 260 million people worldwide live with asthma.

The diagnosis of asthma is based on the patient’s history and clinical picture (periodicity of symptoms, worsening after exposure to irritants, history of exacerbations, etc.) and is confirmed by testing respiratory function through spirometry.

The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, improve and stabilize respiratory function and prevent exacerbations.

Pharmacological treatment

Pharmacological treatment plays a decisive role in controlling asthma. There are two main categories of medications:

• Controller medications, taken regularly to control the disease.
• Reliever medications, used for immediate relief of symptoms.

The main administration of medications is through special breathing devices, i.e. inhaled medications.

In selected cases, other treatments are also used, such as monoclonal antibodies, leukotriene medications, and oral (or intravenous) cortisone in severe asthma attacks.

Inhaled medications

Inhaled medications deliver the medication directly to the lungs and are a basic means of treating asthma and other airway diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

There are several types of devices:

• Spray devices
• Dry powder devices
• Nebulizer devices

Inhaled medications aim to bronchodilate and reduce airway inflammation.

What medications are used?

Inhaled medications include:

• Reliever medications for use during attacks
• Controller medications to prevent symptoms and control inflammation

These include short- and long-acting bronchodilators, as well as inhaled corticosteroids.

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)

They are the mainstay of asthma treatment, as they reduce airway inflammation. They are used daily to control symptoms and prevent attacks.

Short-acting bronchodilators

They are used when breathing becomes difficult, providing quick relief. They are the “rescue drugs” and their effect lasts a few hours.

Their frequent use requires communication with the treating pulmonologist, as it may indicate a worsening of asthma.

Long-acting bronchodilators

They are administered in combination with inhaled corticosteroids in patients with asthma, but also in patients with COPD. Their action lasts 12–24 hours and is taken daily.

They are always used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids to treat asthma.

Benefits of using inhaled medications

• Targeted delivery of medication directly to the lungs
• Better daily symptom control
• Immediate relief in emergency situations

When to contact a doctor

• If you have questions about using medications
• If you wake up at night due to asthma symptoms
• If you need rescue medications more than 2 times a week