Asthma/COPD Treatment

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both chronic respiratory conditions that affect the lungs and make breathing difficult.

Asthma is a condition characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. It is often triggered by allergens, irritants, or exercise, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.

COPD is a progressive lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or occupational hazards. Symptoms include coughing, excess mucus production, shortness of breath, and wheezing, which worsen over time.

Asthma and COPD are chronic conditions that currently have no cure. However, with proper management and treatment, symptoms can be controlled, and quality of life can be improved. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent exacerbations or flare-ups.

While there is no cure for asthma or COPD, some natural approaches can help manage symptoms and improve lung function. These include avoiding triggers such as allergens, air pollutants, and tobacco smoke, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and practicing breathing exercises or techniques such as pursed-lip breathing or diaphragmatic breathing. Some individuals may also benefit from dietary changes, such as consuming anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to note that you should always consult with your doctor to ensure that natural treatments are safe and suitable for your condition.

Asthma and COPD treatment typically involve a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and self-management techniques tailored to individual needs. Medications may include bronchodilators to relax the muscles around the airways and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Long-acting medications may be used for maintenance therapy, while short-acting medications are used for quick relief of symptoms during flare-ups. In severe cases, oral corticosteroids or biological therapies may be prescribed.

Asthma and COPD treatments come in various forms, including inhalers (metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, or nebulisers), oral medications (tablets or capsules), and injectable medications. Inhalers are the primary mode of delivery for bronchodilators and corticosteroids, providing direct delivery of medication to the lungs for rapid relief of symptoms. Oral medications such as bronchodilators or corticosteroids are also commonly used for long-term management.

Many asthma and COPD medications require a prescription from a healthcare provider. However, some over-the-counter medications, such as certain bronchodilators or combination inhalers, may be available without a prescription. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for advice on whether a medication is suitable for you. Please note that at PharmXtra, all requests for the supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation, and the decision to prescribe will be made by a doctor.