Control of inflammation should lead to reduction in airway sensitivity and help prevent airway obstruction. Anti-inflammatory drugs interrupt the development of bronchial inflammation and have a preventive action. They may also modify or terminate ongoing inflammatory reactions in the airways. These agents include corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, and other anti-inflammatory compounds. A new class of anti-inflammatory medications known as leukotriene modifiers, which work in a different way by blocking the activity of chemicals called leukotrienes that are involved in airway inflammation, have recently become available.
Bronchodilators act principally to dilate the airways by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle.
They include beta-adrenergic agonists, methylxanthines, and anticholinergics. Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Triggers range from viral infections to allergies, to irritating gases and particles in the air. An estimated 200,000 to one million asthmatic children have their condition worsened by exposure to secondhand smoke. Related links on the Web These sites are not part of The American Lung Association web site, and we have no control over their content or availability.