Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease that remains underdiagnosed and suboptimally managed, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It can affect individuals of any age and is driven by airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. These mechanisms lead to hallmark symptoms such as breathlessness, wheezing, and chest tightness.

What is the global prevalence of asthma?

Approximately 250 million people are affected by asthma globally, significantly burdening healthcare systems and impacting quality of life.

What are the causes of asthma?

Asthma arises from a complex interaction between genetic susceptibility and environmental exposures. Common triggers include airborne allergens, viral respiratory infections, exercise, air pollutants, certain medications (e.g., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers), stress, food preservatives like sulfites, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

What symptoms are most associated with asthma?

Typical symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. These symptoms are often variable and episodic, with exacerbations often occurring nocturnally or in the early morning.

How is asthma diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical history and objective testing. Key investigations include eosinophil count, fractional exhaled nitric oxide, spirometry, and peak expiratory flow monitoring. These methods help assess airway inflammation and variability in airflow limitation.

What treatments are available for asthma?

Asthma management should be individualized considering age, symptom severity, and trigger profile. Long-term control medications – such as inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and combination inhalers – target underlying inflammation. Short-acting beta-antagonists and anticholinergics provide rapid symptom relief. In moderate-to-severe cases, allergen immunotherapy and biologics may be more appropriate.

Developed by EPG Health for Medthority, independently of any sponsor.