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Medications
Medications are used to prevent and control asthma symptoms, to reduce the number and severity of asthma episodes, and to improve airflow. There are two main types of asthma medications:
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Anti-inflammatories: These are the most important class of therapy for people with asthma. Anti-inflammatory medications reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways. As a result, airways are less sensitive and less likely to react to triggers.
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Bronchodilators: These medications relax the muscle bands that tighten around the airways. This action rapidly opens the airways, letting more air in and out of the lungs and improving breathing. Bronchodilators also help clear mucus from the lungs; as the airways open, mucus moves more freely and can be coughed out more easily. In short-acting forms, bronchodilators relieve or stop asthma symptoms and are very helpful in treating symptoms during an asthma episode. In long-acting forms, bronchodilators provide control of asthma symptoms and prevent asthma episodes.
All but the people with the mildest cases of asthma will need both types of medication.
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