Which medication is typically used for symptomatic relief in a case of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction before physical activity?

In the management of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) are the first-line option for providing symptomatic relief before physical activity. These medications work by quickly relaxing the muscles of the airways, leading to bronchodilation, which alleviates symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. They can be administered via inhalation approximately 15-30 minutes before exercise, offering rapid onset of action, typically peaking in about 30 minutes.

Inhaled corticosteroids primarily serve as long-term control medications for chronic asthma and are not meant for acute relief during exercise. Long-acting beta-agonists, while effective for managing chronic asthma or COPD, do not provide the rapid relief that is often required before physical exertion. Oral steroids, on the other hand, are generally used for severe exacerbations and not suitable for immediate relief or as a preventative measure in a case of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Thus, the use of a short-acting beta-agonist is clearly the most appropriate choice for this specific scenario.