Asthma is typically managed using two main types of inhalers: Preventers (Controllers) and Relievers (Rescue). Preventer inhalers (usually containing corticosteroids) must be taken daily to reduce airway inflammation and prevent attacks. Reliever inhalers (like Albuterol) are fast-acting bronchodilators used only during sudden flare-ups or shortness of breath to quickly open your airways. Since your doctor has already suggested specific medications, it is crucial to use exactly what they prescribed. Please discuss your personalized Asthma Action Plan with them to understand when and how to use each inhaler safely.

The most suitable inhaler depends on the severity and type of your asthma, but commonly a combination of a daily inhaled steroid (e.g., budesonide or fluticasone) and/or a rescue bronchodilator (e.g., salbutamol) is used. Ask your doctor to tailor the inhaler type and dose to your symptoms and breathing tests.

Since your symptoms are not fully controlled, you may benefit from oral medications. A leukotriene receptor antagonist like montelukast is highly effective as it treats both asthma (wheezing) and allergic rhinitis (sneezing). Daily oral antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, can also help control your sneezing. However, using your Salbutamol inhaler three times a day indicates your asthma is currently uncontrolled. While oral pills can assist, you likely need a daily preventive inhaler rather than just quick-relief medication. Please consult your doctor or an allergist so they can safely evaluate your lungs and prescribe the most effective, personalized controller treatment.

You should seek urgent medical attention immediately, as chest tightness and acute respiratory problems can be serious and may indicate conditions like a heart attack, asthma attack, or severe infection. While waiting for help, stay calm, sit upright, and avoid any physical exertion. If you have a prescribed inhaler or medication for heart or lung conditions, use it as directed by your doctor.

It is understandable to feel frustrated when your cough persists. Since your current quick-relief medications (salbutamol) and theophylline are not providing enough control, your asthma likely requires a daily 'preventer' medication. Inhaled corticosteroids (such as fluticasone or budesonide) are the most effective daily treatments to reduce airway inflammation. For severe, uncontrolled asthma, advanced injectable treatments called 'biologics' (such as omalizumab, mepolizumab, or dupilumab) are available and highly effective. We should also ensure your acid reflux (treated with omeprazole) is not triggering the cough. Please consult your doctor or a pulmonologist to discuss adding a preventer inhaler or exploring these injectable biologic options safely.

Since your quick-relief inhaler (salbutamol) is not helping, please consult your doctor promptly, as this indicates your asthma is currently uncontrolled. Given your history of treated tuberculosis, your doctor will want to ensure your symptoms are not related to any past lung scarring. Typically, for better control, doctors recommend daily preventer inhalers rather than relying solely on quick-relief medicine. Common options include a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (like fluticasone or budesonide) and a long-acting bronchodilator (like salmeterol or formoterol) to reduce airway swelling. Please seek a professional medical evaluation to safely find the right treatment plan for you.