What is the common indication for corticosteroids in asthma management?

Corticosteroids play a crucial role in asthma management mainly due to their ability to reduce airway inflammation. In asthma, the airways can become inflamed and hyperresponsive, leading to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and other symptoms. Corticosteroids work by targeting the underlying inflammation in the airways, thereby decreasing swelling and mucus production. This reduction in inflammation helps to stabilize the airway and prevents exacerbations of asthma symptoms.

By improving airway inflammation, corticosteroids contribute to enhanced lung function and can lead to a decrease in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. They are primarily used as maintenance therapy in chronic asthma management and are not typically indicated for immediate treatment of acute bronchospasm, which is where bronchodilators would be utilized instead.