Do you need an asthma preventer?

Published OnMay 20, 2022

Manse Medical Health
Do you need an asthma preventer?

There are two main types of asthma medicines: relievers and preventers.All asthmatics need a reliever, which they can use when their symptoms flare up, but do you need a preventer? And what do preventers actually do?We’ll answer those questions in this week’s blog.What do preventers do?Preventers work to treat the underlying cause of asthma symptoms and, as the name suggests, prevent flare-ups. They make airways less sensitive, reducing inflamation and drying up mucus in the lungs.To be effective, they should be taken every day.Do you need a preventer?Most people with asthma need a preventer. They are usually prescribed when:

  • Asthma has flared up multiple times in one month
  • Asthma has woken you up during the night
  • Asthma has flared up and required urgent GP or emergency room assistence in the past 12 months.

Additionally, if you’ve used your reliever more than twice in the past week, it may mean your asthma is not properly managed, and you require a preventer.If you fit any of the above criteria, it’s important you speak to a doctor.Book an appointment with a GP and get in touch with us.It’s vital that you’re able to manage your asthma well.