What is the key reason to use inhaled corticosteroids regularly for asthma management?

Using inhaled corticosteroids regularly is crucial for the management of asthma because they primarily function to control chronic inflammation in the airways. Asthma is characterized by airway hyperreactivity and persistent inflammation, which can lead to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Inhaled corticosteroids reduce this inflammation over time, helping to prevent the progression of asthma and manage overall disease control.

While immediate symptom control and prevention of acute attacks are important aspects of asthma management, these are typically addressed with short-acting bronchodilators or rescue inhalers, not inhaled corticosteroids. Inhaled corticosteroids contribute to long-term control, making them effective for maintaining airway health, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations, and improving overall lung function over time. However, it’s the anti-inflammatory properties that make them essential for long-term management rather than mere symptom relief or acute attack prevention.