What type of therapy should be used during acute asthma exacerbations?

During acute asthma exacerbations, the goal is to rapidly improve lung function and alleviate symptoms. Short-term step-up therapy is appropriate in this context as it involves adjusting treatment to provide immediate relief.

This type of therapy typically includes the use of short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), which are bronchodilators that quickly relieve acute bronchospasm by relaxing the muscles around the airways. In some cases, systemic corticosteroids may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and help control the exacerbation more effectively. The aim is to stabilize the patient's condition in the short term while re-evaluating their long-term management plan.

Long-term prophylaxis is typically used for managing asthma under stable conditions and does not provide the immediate relief necessary during an acute exacerbation. Maintenance therapy is designed for ongoing control of asthma, ensuring the patient remains stable over time, but it isn’t meant for acute symptom relief. Alternative therapy might involve unproven or less conventional treatments, and, while these may have a role in some patients' overall management, they are not standard for immediate intervention during an exacerbation.

In summary, short-term step-up therapy is specifically designed to address acute situations and ensure rapid symptom relief, making it the most suitable choice for managing