Childhood asthma treatment aims to control symptoms, reduce inflammation, prevent exacerbations, and improve the child’s quality of life. The treatment approach involves both long-term management to control asthma over time and quick relief for acute symptoms. Here’s a comprehensive overview of asthma treatment for children:
1. Long-Term Management
1.1. Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS):
- Purpose: Reduce inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
- Examples: Fluticasone, budesonide, beclometasone.
- Administration: Usually taken daily through an inhaler.
- Side Effects: Can include oral thrush and hoarseness; proper inhaler technique and regular rinsing of the mouth help minimize these effects.
1.2. Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs):
- Purpose: Relax the muscles around the airways to keep them open. Used in combination with ICS.
- Examples: Salmeterol, formoterol.
- Administration: Taken twice daily.
- Note: LABAs should never be used alone without an ICS due to risk of worsening asthma control.