Farmington Drugs

What You Need to Know About Asthma and Its Medications

What You Need to Know About Asthma and Its Medications

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in your lungs, making it hard to breathe. It can range from mild to severe and may be triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or stress. At Farmington Drugs, we know that understanding asthma—and the medications used to manage it—is key to living a healthy, active life.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the basics of asthma, common symptoms, and how various types of medications help you breathe easier.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which makes it harder for air to move in and out of your lungs. This can lead to symptoms like:

  • Wheezing

  • Shortness of breath

  • Coughing (especially at night)

  • Chest tightness

Asthma symptoms can come and go, and they may vary in severity. Some people have occasional flare-ups, while others experience symptoms daily.

Common Asthma Triggers

Knowing what causes your asthma symptoms is an important step in managing the condition. Common triggers include:

  • Pollen, dust mites, and pet dander

  • Smoke or air pollution

  • Cold or dry air

  • Respiratory infections

  • Physical activity

  • Strong odors or fumes

  • Stress or strong emotions

Avoiding or minimizing these triggers can help reduce your symptoms and the need for medication.

How Asthma Is Diagnosed

Doctors usually diagnose asthma based on your symptoms, medical history, and breathing tests such as spirometry, which measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly.

Once diagnosed, your provider will help develop an asthma action plan, which includes instructions for daily management and what to do during a flare-up.

Types of Asthma Medications

Asthma medications are generally divided into two main categories:

1. Long-Term Control Medications

These are taken daily to prevent symptoms and keep inflammation under control. They work gradually and are not meant for quick relief.

Common types include:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids (reduce inflammation)

  • Long-acting beta agonists (relax the muscles around the airways)

  • Leukotriene modifiers (block chemicals that cause inflammation)

These medications help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks over time.

2. Quick-Relief (Rescue) Medications

Used as needed, these medications provide fast relief during an asthma attack or when symptoms flare up.

They work by relaxing tightened muscles around the airways and making breathing easier within minutes.

These are essential to carry with you at all times if you have asthma.

Proper Use of Inhalers

Inhalers are one of the most common ways to take asthma medication. But to be effective, they must be used correctly.

Inhaler Tips:

  • Shake the inhaler before use (if required)

  • Use a spacer if recommended to help get more medication into your lungs

  • Breathe in slowly and deeply during inhalation

  • Hold your breath for a few seconds afterward

  • Rinse your mouth after using steroid inhalers to prevent irritation or infection

At Farmington Drugs, our pharmacists can show you how to use your inhaler properly and answer any questions.

Staying on Track with Your Treatment

Asthma management isn’t just about taking medications. It’s about creating a routine that supports your health.

Here are a few tips:

  • Take medications exactly as prescribed, even if you feel well

  • Keep track of your symptoms in a journal or mobile app

  • Monitor your breathing with a peak flow meter if recommended

  • Know your triggers and avoid them when possible

  • Follow your asthma action plan and update it as needed

When to Seek Medical Help

Call your doctor or visit urgent care if:

  • You use your quick-relief inhaler more than twice a week

  • Your symptoms get worse or don’t improve with medication

  • You experience side effects that affect your daily life

Call 911 if you have severe difficulty breathing, can’t speak in full sentences, or your lips or face turn blue.

How Farmington Drugs Can Help

At Farmington Drugs, we offer personalized support for asthma patients. We can:

  • Explain how medications work and how to use them safely

  • Help you manage side effects and avoid drug interactions

  • Sync your refills so you’re never without your medication

  • Provide home delivery if getting to the pharmacy is difficult

  • Offer recommendations for allergy relief products or spacers

Our goal is to help you breathe easier—every day.

Final Thoughts

Asthma is a lifelong condition, but with the right knowledge and support, it can be managed effectively. From understanding triggers to using medications correctly, small steps can lead to big improvements in your quality of life.

Visit Farmington Drugs today to speak with a pharmacist about your asthma plan, refill your prescription, or get advice on managing symptoms.

We’re here to help you stay healthy—one breath at a time.