Bronchospasm is commonly caused by inflammation-induced airway hyperresponsiveness or allergic reactions, which require the administration of bronchodilators.
Bronchodilators are able to relax the smooth muscle of the bronchial tubes, thus reducing the symptoms of airway obstruction, as well as decreasing the permeability of the microvessels and reducing the release of inflammatory mediators from inflammatory cells that cause constriction of the airways, thus relieving the spasm of the bronchial tubes.
There are 3 types of bronchodilators, β2 agonists, such as salbutamol and terbutaline; theophyllines, such as aminophylline; and anticholinergics, such as ipratropium bromide. In severe cases, the glucocorticoid budesonide can also be treated by nebulized inhalation.
If the bronchospasm is caused by allergy, it should be treated with anti-allergy drugs, such as loratadine, after staying away from the allergens.
When bronchospasm occurs, it is recommended to go to the hospital immediately for treatment under professional guidance.