I have avoided answering the question as to whether bacterial allergy exists, since this is still poorly understood. Clearly, some rare patients can be allergic to bacterial products however. In general, self-administration of asthma medications by students with asthma is dangerous. Asthma sufferers who have been evaluated and educated by allergy and asthma specialists may safely use their medicines at school on their own with little guidance. There should, however, be a coordinated approach by the teaching staff, the parents and the physician as to what to do if the asthmatic student is having breathing difficulties.
Side affects of several asthma drugs include increased heart rate and trembling hands.
Asthma therapies commonly use agents which are related chemically to adrenaline, as discussed above. Trembling and an increased heart rate may occur, but are rarely troublesome enough to discontinue the medications. Inhaled steroids have severe side effects. Steroids are extremely safe and for many asthma patients an absolute necessity. Side effects from steroids are dose dependent.