Which inhaler should be used first to relieve symptoms in COPD or emphysema?

• A. Bronchodilators
• B. Corticosteroids
• C. Anticholinergic inhalers
• D. Oxygen therapy

Answer: (A)

Bronchodilators are used first because they act quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, opening up the passages and improving airflow within minutes. This directly addresses the sudden breathlessness that people with COPD or emphysema experience, giving rapid relief from symptoms.

Corticosteroids, by contrast, reduce inflammation over days to weeks and are aimed at long-term control and reducing exacerbations, not immediate relief. Anticholinergic inhalers do bronchodilate as well, but their onset is slower than short-acting bronchodilators and they’re usually used for ongoing maintenance rather than immediate symptom relief. Oxygen therapy helps when there’s low blood oxygen, but it doesn’t provide the quick relief of bronchial constriction that inhaled bronchodilators offer.