Thanks for asking about your asthma symptoms and the use of steroid therapy. We do not usually use systemic injectable steroids in out Allergy and asthma Clinic practice as it is too much of a good thing in most cases. When patients with asthma experience flare ups of their symptoms, it is due in large part to the inflammation within the region of the lungs. Systemic steroids deliver cortisone to the whole body and also to the part that really needs it - the lungs. Inhaled steroids are better directed to the area of inflammation and are associated with fewer side effects when used properly.
Steroids can impair the immune system when used in high doses.
In general, it takes about 40mg of prednisone daily for 12 continuous days to retard the body's ability to fight infections. At theses doses, it is necessary to taper off of the steroid therapy gradually. Your point is well stated that when a asthma sufferer needs to use albuterol more often, it is usually due to an inadequate inhaled steroid usage. I hope this info helps you and your family.