TREATMENT
Understanding treatment options
Understanding your options is the first step toward asthma self-care.
Living beyond your asthma symptoms
Treatment that goes past the symptoms
Just because you aren’t having an asthma attack right now doesn’t mean your current treatment is controlling your asthma with type 2 inflammation. You can learn about treatments that may offer:
A Lower Chance of Flare-Ups
Not just treating flare-ups as they happen.
Improved Lung Function
Type 2 inflammation can cause lung damage over time if not treated.
Less Reliance on Oral Steroids
Oral steroids might work for asthma attacks, but long-term use can bring serious side effects
Improved Quality of Life
Asthma symptoms can also bring anxiety and stress.
Treatment and Management Options
There are many ways to improve your breathing ability and treat asthma. These may include:
With some types of asthma, exposure to allergens (such as dust mites, mold, or animal hair) can cause it to get worse. Your doctor can help identify the allergen and give advice.
If you smoke, quitting can greatly help improve asthma control. Stopping tobacco use can reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
In cases of obesity, asthma can be harder to manage. Even a moderate weight loss can improve asthma by reducing inflammation and improving how well medication works.
Treating ENT conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, or nasal polyps can help improve asthma control.
Bronchodilators are a type of medicine that can make breathing easier. They widen your airway by relaxing the muscles in it. In most cases, this involves inhaling a short-acting bronchodilator, either alone or in combination with an anti-inflammatory drug.
Anti-inflammatories include oral corticosteroids (steroid pills) and, most commonly, inhaled corticosteroids (inhalers/nebulizers). They can be prescribed as often as daily. They work by reducing bronchial inflammation.
Long-term corticosteroid use can lead to side effects such as weight gain, bone loss, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Your doctor will usually prescribe the lowest dose possible and may recommend lifestyle measures as well.
In extreme cases where medications aren’t working, a surgery called a bronchial thermoplasty may be done. This procedure involves inserting an endoscopic probe to physically heat up your airways. The goal is to thin the muscles in the airway, allowing for better breathing.
Biologics are a type of asthma treatment that can target inflammation at a key source. They work differently than immunosuppressants or steroids, and can target specific parts of the body without affecting the entire immune system.
If you still experience regular symptoms, even with high-dose treatment and good adherence, your doctor may recommend biologics that improve lung function.
Activity can improve lung health
Not only is it possible to stay active with asthma, even if it’s severe, but it can actually help you manage your symptoms better. Be sure to speak to your doctor about which activities might be helpful for you, which may include:
Daily
Activities
Light movement that keeps you active throughout the day—like walking, cleaning, or taking the stairs.
Games &
Hobbies
Fun, low-intensity activities like bowling, gardening, or DIY projects that keep you moving without overexertion.
Moderate Sports
Brisk walking, swimming, or cycling are great ways to build endurance while being mindful of your breathing.
High-Intensity
Activities
For those who can participate safely, sports like basketball, football, jogging, and combat sports can help improve overall fitness.
