To better understand asthma medication, it is important to look at different types of asthma medications and how they improve asthma symptoms. To understand what the drug does to the body, it is good to know what symptoms occur when a person has an asthma attack.

Most of the symptoms experienced by a person during an attack of asthma are related to what is happening in the airways in the lungs. Something usually triggers the asthma attack, usually an allergen or irritant such as pollen, the smell of pollutants, harsh chemicals, particulate exhaust fumes, dust or pet dander. The airway response to allergen or irritant which causes airways to become inflamed become smaller, making it more difficult to move air in and out of the lungs. Inflamed airways can lead to a feeling of chest tightness, chest pain can also be felt during an asthma attack. The person might cough or experience shortness of breath.

The purpose of most medications for asthma is airway open so the person can breathe easier. Other medications may be given to reduce the reaction the body has to trigger asthma. If you have allergies to an antihistamine or decongestant is prescribed.

Asthma medications are long-term control of nature or quick-relief medications for asthma designed to carry an asthma attack under control quickly so the person can breathe more easily. The exchange of air in and out of the lungs is essential for life as a chronic asthmatic medication should always bring quick relief of asthma with them at all times.

Long-term medication control come in two types: those who are anti-inflammatory drugs and those who are bronchodilators. When taken regularly over a period of time that can control asthma and prevent attacks. This allows adults to enjoy a normal lifestyle physical activity.

Steroids are anti-inflammatory and reduce inflammation and mucus production that occurs during an asthma attack. Eventually the anti-inflammatory airways less sensitive and less likely to react to the shot which means less experience symptoms.

Bronchodilators relax the smooth muscles of the airways that cause to feel tight. When the muscle relaxes more air can enter and exit the air. Bronchodilators also help clear mucus that has formed during an asthma attack. The adult then cough and mucus from the lungs, thereby improving your breathing.

Some common long-term control drugs are inhaled corticosteroids, mast cell stabilizers, which are anti-inflammatory drugs, long-acting beta-agonists are bronchodilators, theophylline, a bronchodilator, modifiers leukotrienes, which are used as an alternative to steroids and mast cell stabilizers and Xolair is an injectable medication for asthma.

Quick-relief medications for asthma provide prompt relief of symptoms when the air is restricted. This type of medicine includes short-acting beta-agonists, anticholinergics, and corticosteroids.

Inhalers, nebulizers, and pills are typical players in the patient's treatment plan for asthma. A metered dose inhaler has breathed in through the mouth. Nebulizers are machines inside the medicine is inhaled, and the pills are taken orally.

A new drug for asthma (Xolair) is administered by injection (shot).

Some asthma medications can be taken together. Some inhalers contain more than one drug.

It is important not to be without medication for asthma. It is especially important to check the expiration date on the rescue inhalers quick action to ensure that you can use. Get spares all medications for asthma before they run out. Some pharmacies keep track of when to refill their medications and know when to get your prescription. Always call a recipe at least 48 hours before you need more than the pharmacist may need time to restock.

Author's Bio: 

Lisa Beverley writes highly informative and researched articles for end consumers about a variety of health care topics including remedies, Health and Fitness, Nutrition, Slimming, weight loss products, bodybuilding supplements and diet tips.