What is the first treatment for asthma?

Asthma causes sensitive, narrowed airways that can lead to wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and breathlessness. An inhaler may relax airway muscles for quick relief, reduce airway inflammation for control, or combine these aims. The right choice depends on symptom pattern and examination. Spirometry can help assess airflow, while allergy testing may be considered when an allergic trigger is suspected.

Use the inhaler exactly as prescribed and ask a clinician to watch your technique; poor technique can leave medicine in the mouth instead of the lungs. Keep a written action plan, notice triggers such as smoke or exercise, and attend a chronic disease review when symptoms recur or treatment needs change. A nebuliser treatment is generally considered in supervised care when symptoms are severe or inhalers cannot be used effectively.

Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking, blue or grey lips, exhaustion, confusion, or symptoms that are worsening despite the prescribed reliever. Sit upright, follow your asthma action plan, and use your reliever as directed while help is arranged. Do not delay because wheezing becomes quieter; very poor airflow can sometimes produce less audible wheeze.

Ask which inhaler is for quick relief, which is for prevention, how to use a spacer, whether spirometry is needed, and when a chronic disease review or allergy testing would help.