People with asthma usually use steroids, also known as inhaled corticosteroids, for controlling their asthma in the long run. These steroids produce side-effects resulting from prolonged usage of these medications, though the side effects can be minimized with appropriate measures.

Inhaled corticosteroids work similarly to cortisol, a body hormone secreted by the adrenal glands. These steroids reduce inflammation of the airways and decrease the amount of mucus produced by the cells lining the airways. In this way, they prevent further asthma symptoms, though they do not lead to the disappearance of already existing symptoms.

Some of the side effects of inhaled corticosteroids are:

1. Thrush, i.e. yeast infection of the mouth. This can be treated by washing the mouth after inhaling the corticosteroids.

2. Hoarseness of the voice. This can be treated by lowering the dose of the medication.

3. Increase of appetite, which may lead to a gain in weight. This can be prevented by carefully monitoring the amount of food that is taken in.

4. Bruising of the insides of the airways.

Other, less common side effects resulting from the use of these steroids include: faster heartbeat, nervousness, loss of appetite and nausea. All these effects can be alleviated by lowering the amount of dose.