Final answer:
Bronchodilators are typically given first to quickly ease breathing during an asthma attack, followed by steroids for long-term control. The bronchodilator opens airways immediately, while steroids help reduce inflammation over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the treatment of asthma, the order of medication delivery can be critical. Generally, a bronchodilator is given first in an acute asthma attack as it acts quickly to relax the muscles around the airways. This immediate action helps to open the airways and makes it easier to breathe, which is paramount during an exacerbation. After the bronchodilator has opened the airways, a steroid may be administered. Steroids help to reduce inflammation in the airways, offering long-term control over asthma symptoms. However, they do not provide the instant relief that is necessary during an ongoing asthma attack. Therefore, bronchodilators are the preferred first-line of treatment in acute scenarios to alleviate immediate distress before adding steroids for long-term management.