What are the different types of asthma medications and who should take them?
There are two kinds of asthma medications. One is called a long term control medication and the other is a short acting reliever. The long term control medication is prescribed to people who get asthma attacks often. People who have asthma symptoms often or severe asthma attacks should take a long term control medication. Short acting relievers are used for quick relief of asthma episodes and for emergency situations. Everyone with asthma should have a short acting reliever. How do I know if my asthma is being controlled by the right medication? If your asthma is well controlled, it should not interfere with the things you do. It should not cause you to feel short of breath. Some of the signs that your asthma is not well controlled are: • Having shortness of breath, coughing or difficulty breathing more than two times a week • Waking up at night with shortness of breath, coughing or difficulty breathing more than one time a month • Having to use a short acting reliever medication more
