My options
 
It is not possible to cure asthma, but it is possible to live with it and keep it under control. 
 
Medicines 
It's possible to relieve and even prevent the symptoms of asthma, through the use of medicine. 
 
What you are given will depend on how serious your asthma is. Your doctor may prescribe a reliever (usually an inhaler) to open up your airways when they feel constricted or an attack starts. Even if you have mild asthma, your doctor may give you a preventer, which can help reduce and even prevent asthmatic reactions. This preventer is usually a steroid, in an inhaler form which can help you to gain control of your symptoms by reducing inflammation in your lungs. When you have a severe attack, your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroids in tablet form.  
 
Find out more about medicines 
 
Using a nebuliser 
A nebuliser is a special machine that creates a fine mist, containing your asthma treatment. The mist is inhaled through a mask or mouthpiece. Airway dilators (which open your airways) and steroids can both be administered by nebuliser. 
 
Nebulisers are available for home use, but are mostly used in hospital or a GP's surgery in emergency situations – although some tests have shown that inhalers are just as effective when administering airway dilators. 
 
Complementary therapies 
There are a number of complementary therapies available for asthma including special breathing techniques, acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicines and yoga.  
 
These should not replace the treatment your doctor may have prescribed.  
 
If you want to explore these options, speak to your practice nurse about how to find a registered practitioner.