Asthma medication can make a big difference for people who suffer from asthma, but there are some side effects associated with them. And unfortunately, many people stop taking their medication when these side effects occur, which can lead to increased risk of an asthma attack.
The side effects vary, depending on the medication in question, and their severity also varies. It can range from mild jitteriness to more severe effects. The following are some of the most common medications as well as their associated side effects.
Bronchodilators
Most doctors prescribe bronchodilators as a type of "rescue" inhaler. They help to relax the muscles surrounding the airways, making it easier to breathe quickly. They don't treat the underlying asthma inflammation, however. The technical term for these types of treatments is "beta2 agonists."
The side effects of bronchodilators are normally minor, if any occur at all, but if they are used more often than recommended, they can cause problems. These problems can include an irregular or increased heart rate.
Oral Corticosteroids
Oral steroids are generally prescribed for acute asthma, when the symptoms are particularly severe. They work by reducing the inflammation in the lungs, along the bronchioles.
Because there are a number of associated side effects, this type of medication is normally used for short-term asthma management. In certain cases - if a patient doesn't respond to other forms of treatment - these may be prescribed for longer term treatment.
Common side effects of oral steroid medications include the following:
- insomnia
- mood swings
- thinning skin
- increased hair growth
If you experience any of the following side-effects you should contact your doctor right away:
- itching and/or hives
- breathing problems
- headache
- eye pain
- stomach pain
- pain or swelling in the lower legs
- sudden weight gain
- vision problems
Inhaled Steroids
The side effects of inhaled steroid medications are much less severe than those associated with oral steroid medications. Because the side effects are much less common and because of the effectiveness of these medications, they are often prescribed to manage asthma attacks.
One of the only common side effects of this type of medication is oral yeast infections.
Regardless of the type of medication you are using to manage asthma, if you have any unusual symptoms appear you should consult with your doctor to ensure that your treatment plan is not causing further problems.
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