What is a common initial treatment for a patient experiencing asthma exacerbation?

In the case of a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation, bronchodilators are typically the initial treatment of choice. These medications work primarily as short-acting beta-agonists, which help to quickly relax the muscles surrounding the airways, leading to bronchodilation and improved airflow. This action is essential during an exacerbation when the airways are constricted and obstructed, causing difficulty in breathing.

In contrast, inhaled corticosteroids, while important for long-term management and control of asthma, are not effective for immediate relief of acute symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, but their onset of action is slower than that of bronchodilators. Similarly, oral steroids may be used during more severe exacerbations to help reduce inflammation, but they are typically not the first-line treatment due to their delayed onset and potential side effects with long-term use. Antibiotics do not play a role in the treatment of asthma unless there is an underlying bacterial infection, which is not a guaranteed component of asthma exacerbations. Thus, bronchodilators are the most appropriate choice for immediate relief during an asthma attack.