women s health issues
Asthma During Pregnancy
Treatment of Asthma During Pregnancy
Inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids Because asthma can change during pregnancy, doctors may ask women with asthma to use a peak flow meter to monitor their breathing more often. Pregnant women with asthma should see their doctor regularly so that treatment can be adjusted as needed. Maintaining good control of asthma is important. Inadequate treatment can result in serious problems. Inhaled bronchodilators (such asalbuterol) and inhaled corticosteroids (such asbudesonide) can be used during pregnancy. When inhaled, the medications affect mainly the lungs and are less likely to affect the whole body and the fetus than when they are taken by mouth.Theophylline(taken by mouth) is not usually used during pregnancy. Corticosteroids taken by mouth are used only when other treatments are ineffective. If asthma suddenly worsens, women are given a corticosteroid intravenously for 24 to 48 hours, then by mouth. 