What is the most effective way to reduce complications from asthma?

Using regularly scheduled inhaled corticosteroids is considered the most effective way to reduce complications from asthma. These medications function as anti-inflammatory agents that help to control airway inflammation, reduce bronchial hyperreactivity, and prevent exacerbations of asthma. By regularly administering corticosteroids, patients maintain better control over their asthma symptoms and significantly lower the risk of acute asthma attacks and subsequent complications, such as hospitalization and emergency room visits.

While other strategies, such as using a peak flow meter, can help patients monitor their asthma control and guide management decisions, they do not directly address the underlying inflammation associated with the disease. Peak flow meters are beneficial for daily monitoring but do not provide preventative control like inhaled corticosteroids do. Engaging in regular exercise can improve overall health and may benefit respiratory function, but it must be done cautiously in asthmatic patients, and does not serve as a primary method for controlling the underlying inflammation. Inhalation of warm mist may provide temporary symptom relief, particularly for associated respiratory symptoms, but lacks the long-term efficacy needed to reduce asthma complications comprehensively.