Unlike their oral counterparts, these drugs can be taken for much longer periods of time. They are especially useful in controlling moderate asthma. A new asthma medication called leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are being used to interfere with the actions of a class of chemicals called leukotrienes. Leukotrienes help produce the symptoms of asthma. Interference with their actions decreases asthma symptomology. LTRAs are believed to greatly reduce asthma severity, when taken daily. (Britannica 2)To avoid attacks patients can take certain preventative steps. Asthma can be avoided by doing the following:1.Avoid being outside during the early morning and late afternoon hours, when pollen levels are highest.2.Since dust has been associated with asthma attacks, thoroughly and frequently clean the indoor environment. Dust and vacuum everyday. Wash bed linens in hot, soapy water every few days or so. Replace air filters in air conditioners and furnaces regularly.3.During hot weather, use air conditioning. (Harrington 55)Eliminating the irritant is the key. If asthma is brought on by cigarette smoke, the patient must avoid this irritant. If asthma is brought on by exercise, the person should try to find a level of exertion that is comfortable. Using an inhaled bronchodilator before exercising may also control asthma symptoms. For all persons with asthma, communication with and regular visits to their physicians are essential components of treatment. Without periodic checkups, the physician cannot monitor progress or potential worsening of symptoms. So, the most important aspect of prevention and treatment for asthma patients is the regular physician visit.Asthma is something that many people live with from day to day. For example, my brother was diagnosed with asthma when my family moved from Alaska. He was a one-year-old baby that was in and out of hospitals all through out his childhood years. At first the doctors wanted to place h...
