Steroid therapy for asthma: Pros clearly outweigh the cons
First, a note: We are not talking about the steroids that athletes sometimes use to excess.
We are discussing anti-inflammatory drugs – steroids and corticosteroids – that improve asthma control.
After inhaling a steroid a person should enjoy fewer symptoms and better breathing and be much less likely to need hospitalization.
Remember that steroids are slow-acting, so they need time to take effect during an asthma attack. To get the maximum benefit, take them every day.
Several types of steroids are available to help deal with asthma, and they come with a variety of dosages. Your physician and your pharmacist can help you understand the choices.
Thrush
The only downside is thrush, a very occasional side effect of steroid therapy. This yeast infection in the mouth can be defeated by gargling after using the asthma inhaler. If needed, a prescription lozenge will get rid of the thrush.
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