Call 911
Manage asthma. Prevent attacks.
Understand your triggers, use your inhalers the right way, and stay ahead of flare-ups. With the right plan, asthma is very manageable day to day.
What do you need right now?
A written Asthma Action Plan is your best tool
It tells you exactly what to do at each stage — green (doing well), yellow (caution), and red (emergency) — so you’re not guessing in the moment. Ask your provider for one if you don’t have it yet.
Is your asthma under control?
4 quick questions, based on standard asthma control guidance. Nothing here is saved or stored.
1. Have you used your rescue inhaler more than 2 days in the past week?
2. Has asthma woken you up at night in the past month?
3. Has asthma limited your normal activities in the past month?
4. Are you unsure how or when to use your inhalers correctly?
This is a general check-in, not a personal determination or diagnosis. If you’re struggling to breathe, using your rescue inhaler with little relief, or your lips or fingertips are turning blue, call 911.
Medication options
For context, not a recommendation — your provider will help choose what fits your situation.
| Inhaler / treatment type | What it does | When it’s used |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue inhaler (albuterol) | Opens airways quickly when you’re suddenly short of breath | For sudden symptoms; not daily prevention |
| Controller inhaler — ICS | Reduces inflammation in airways over time | Daily maintenance to prevent attacks; foundational for most persistent asthma |
| Combination inhaler — LABA/ICS | Long-acting bronchodilator plus corticosteroid in one device | Daily maintenance when ICS alone isn’t enough |
| Leukotriene modifier (montelukast) | Pill that blocks an inflammation pathway | Add-on when inhalers alone aren’t enough; useful for allergic asthma |
| Biologics | Injectable medications targeting specific inflammation pathways | Severe asthma not controlled by standard medications |
| Oral steroids | Strong inflammation reduction | Short courses for flares, not long-term use |
The information here describes how a class of medications generally works and what to discuss with your provider or pharmacist. It is not a prescription, a recommendation of a specific drug or dose, or instructions to start, stop, or change any medication. Decisions about medications belong to you and your prescribing clinician.
Building your care team
Ready to find care?
Search for a pulmonologist, allergist, or primary care provider near you.