What is the role of corticosteroids in treating acute asthma exacerbations?

Corticosteroids play a vital role in the management of acute asthma exacerbations primarily by reducing airway inflammation. When a patient experiences an asthma attack, the inflammation in the airways can become significantly heightened, leading to increased mucus production, bronchoconstriction, and airway edema. Corticosteroids work by suppressing the inflammatory response and decreasing the activation of inflammatory cells, which helps to reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways.

By mitigating this inflammation, corticosteroids can improve airflow and help the patient recover from the exacerbation more effectively. It's important to note that while corticosteroids do not provide immediate relief or rapid bronchodilation, they are critical for long-term control and management of inflammatory processes in asthma. This distinct mechanism is why corticosteroids are a key component of treatment during acute exacerbations, particularly for patients experiencing severe symptoms or those who are at risk of needing hospitalization.