Maintenance therapy for asthma

Asthma airways can become inflamed and narrow in response to triggers. Maintenance inhalers are used on a routine schedule to keep inflammation controlled; they are different from medicines intended for rapid relief. Treatment may need adjustment when symptoms, inhaler technique, environment or other conditions change. Cough, wheezing and chest tightness can be asthma symptoms, but these signs can also have other causes. Allergic rhinitis and house dust mite allergy may aggravate breathing symptoms in some people.

Use the inhaler exactly as prescribed and ask a clinician or pharmacist to watch your technique. Keep an up-to-date written asthma action plan, know which inhaler is for daily control and which is for quick relief, and attend reviews even when symptoms are quiet. Notice triggers such as smoke, dust, exercise, infections or allergens. Rinse your mouth after a steroid inhaler if instructed. Never share inhalers or change doses without advice. Read about [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/) and [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/).

Seek emergency help if breathing is severely difficult, speaking is hard, lips look blue or grey, you become drowsy or confused, or your reliever is not providing the expected improvement. Sit upright and follow your action plan while help is arranged. A severe attack may require urgent assessment and [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/), but a nebuliser is not a substitute for an asthma plan.

Ask whether your inhaler technique is correct, how often to use each inhaler, what your personal triggers are and when treatment should be stepped up or down. Discuss persistent [Cough](/symptoms/cough/), [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) or symptoms linked with allergies.