First of all a priority should be to obtain a prescription for an emergency albuterol sulfate inhaler.
Wal-Mart has the lowest prices, if you go in the store.
This is absolutely essential.
The fatality rate from asthma is highest among those who have only mild symptoms and ignore them.
The problem is that you have had a yellow flag. Ocasionally the situation starts to go downhill very, rapidly. Within five minutes you may need an emergency intubation to stay alive. Albuterol sulfate will open the airways and save your life.
Square two is to purchase an over-the counter expectorant, such as Guinafesen, which will help break up the mucus.
You would benefit from an evaluation at a respiratory clinic and undergo what is called a "chemical challange", They will put an aerosol of a substance known to cause an asthmatic reaction and measure the reaction.
They placed you on a mild steroid, but it usually takes a few weeks for it to work.
A beta-agonist such as Foradil might be a good addition to the medication package. Some people have reactions to Foradil, others don't.
There is also the possibility you have a lung infection, which they don't always pick-up on.
Hi, welcome to the forum, your symptoms are suggestive of Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. There may be underlying bronchial asthma or chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis usually presents with sputum (mucus), symptoms can be worsened by chest infections.
A test with bronchodilators for 2-3 weeks will be useful to relieve the symptoms. Respiratory function tests before and after exercise is required.
Other possibilities are central airway obstruction, parenchymal pulmonary disease, gastro esophageal reflux, coronary heart disease etc.
Treatment with Beta-agonists with or without Cromoglycates and Inhaled glucocorticoids against prescription will help. I suggest you to consult physician. Take care and regards.