Directions: Carefully read the following paragraphs and then answer the accompanying questions.   Some Therapies for Asthma Sufferers     A There are a number of treatments available for asthma sufferers, but some are more effective for certain types of use than others. For example, short-acting best agonists (bronchodilators) and oral and intravenous corticosteroids are best for rapid relief. They are not for long-term use. However, they can be beneficial for those who have exercise-induced asthma if used before commencing exercise.     B Inhaled corticosteroids provide long-term control... Show more

Directions: Carefully read the following paragraphs and then answer the accompanying questions.

 

Some Therapies for Asthma Sufferers    
A There are a number of treatments available for asthma sufferers, but some are more effective for certain types of use than others. For example, short-acting best agonists (bronchodilators) and oral and intravenous corticosteroids are best for rapid relief. They are not for long-term use. However, they can be beneficial for those who have exercise-induced asthma if used before commencing exercise.    
B Inhaled corticosteroids provide long-term control of asthma symptoms. Sometimes, combining medications with both a beta-2 agonist and an inhaled steroid is useful for long-term control. Those who have allergy-induced asthma may be prescribed a course of shots for desensitization, that is, a course of specific immunotherapy related to the allergen.    
C Controversial therapies include the use of leukotriene modifiers. These prevent symptoms for up to 24 hours. However, there are a number of recorded side effects. Patients taking this class of drugs have experienced hallucinations, agitations, aggressive behavior, and even thoughts of suicide. Among unproven methods for relief of asthma are breathing techniques, including so-called “yoga breathing,” and the ingestion of herbal remedies such as gingko.    

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