To prevent exercise-induced bronchial asthma drug used is
**Core Concept**
Exercise-induced bronchial asthma is a condition where physical activity triggers bronchospasm, leading to symptoms of asthma such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. This occurs due to heat and dry air-induced loss of water from the airway mucosa, which exposes sensitive airway nerves and triggers an inflammatory response.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is a beta-2 agonist, specifically a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) such as albuterol. These medications work by stimulating beta-2 receptors in the airway smooth muscle, causing bronchodilation and relaxation of the airway muscles. This allows for increased airflow and relief of bronchospasm symptoms. The most effective time to take these medications is 15-30 minutes before exercise, as they take some time to take effect.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not a typical medication used for exercise-induced bronchial asthma. While anticholinergics can be used in asthma treatment, they are not the first-line choice for exercise-induced bronchial asthma.
**Option B:** Steroids are used in chronic asthma management but are not the best choice for acute exercise-induced bronchial asthma prevention.
**Option C:** Cromolyn sodium is a mast cell stabilizer that can be used in asthma treatment, but it is not the first-line choice for exercise-induced bronchial asthma prevention.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To prevent exercise-induced bronchial asthma, patients should also consider using a mask with a humidifier during exercise, as this can help to prevent heat and dry air-induced bronchospasm.
**Correct Answer:** C. Cromolyn sodium