The aim of treatment is to control asthma symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.

Common Tests to Evaluate Asthma

• Peak flow measurements.
• Pre and post bronchodilator spirometry (Lung Function Test).
• Fractional exhaled nitric oxide(FeNO).
• Bronchoprovocation test to measure airway sensitivity.
• Skin prick test to common allergens that can affect you.
• Full blood count.

ASTHMA MEDICATIONS

Asthma is mainly treated with inhaled medications. Inhalers are devices that deliver these medications directly into your lungs.

Treatments for Asthma

There are 2 main types of asthma inhalers:

• PREVENTER INHALERS

  These contain steroids which is the main treatment for asthma.

  The steroids reduce the airway inflammation in the asthmatic lungs and help to control your asthma symptoms.

  These also make the lungs less sensitive to triggers and help to prevent asthma attacks.

  You should take your preventer inhaler regularly even when you are feeling well.





• RELIEVER INHALERS

  These provide quick relief of your asthma symptoms by helping the airways to open up.

  However, using your reliever inhaler for three or more times a week may be a sign that your asthma is not well controlled.

  Do not rely solely on your reliever inhaler. It may relieve your symptoms, but it does not treat the underlying inflammation in the asthmatic lungs.

HOW TO USE YOUR INHALERS?

There are different inhaler devices and administration methods. Please consult your doctor, pharmacist or nurse clinician if you are unsure of how to use your inhalers.

• ORAL MEDICATIONS

  Leukotriene antagonists like montelukast are sometimes prescribed in asthma patients with allergic rhinitis.

  Short courses of oral prednisolone are prescribed for serious asthma exacerbations.

  Long term oral steroid therapy may be used in a small proportion of patients with more severe form of asthma.

  
  
  
  

  If you experience side effects from your medications, please seek medical attention or discuss with your doctor before stopping the treatment

  
  
  

  If you have any doubts or concerns with regards to your asthma treatment, do have a discussion with your regular asthma doctor

LIVING WITH ASTHMA

You can still lead a normal and healthy lifestyle even if you have asthma

• Regular preventer use. Do not rely on reliever inhaler alone as it does not treat the airway inflammation in asthma.



• Be familiar with your personalized Asthma Action Plan.



• Smoking cessation is highly recommended. There are medications and strategies to help you quit smoking successfully.



• Keep up an active lifestyle.



• Regular follow up with your asthma doctor helps to keep your asthma under control.



• Avoid or reduce exposure to your asthma triggers (house dust mites, animals, certain food, chemicals, air pollutants).



• Regular vaccination such as yearly influenza vaccination is encouraged.