Asthma
What is asthma?
Asthma is a type of allergic inflammatory disease that affects the lungs. People with asthma tend to have difficulty breathing (shortness of breath) and may suffer from symptoms such as tightness in the chest, as well as coughing and wheezing attacks. These symptoms may be aggravated by so-called triggers such as dust and other allergens.
What causes asthma?
Asthma is triggered by different factors. These include allergens such as pollen and dust, types of irritants such as air pollution, perfumes, cold air and even exercise and food allergies that may trigger an asthma attack. These worsening symptoms or attacks may vary in intensity and are treated accordingly.
Avoidance of the above-mentioned triggers remains key to good asthma control, but unfortunately, that is seldom possible as these triggers are contained in the air we breathe every day.
Asthma treatment:
The mainstay of treatment, therefore, remains corticosteroid therapy, and the most appropriate delivery method is using a pump and inhaling the treatment directly into the lungs. There are various pumps or delivery devices on the market; all have similar drugs they deliver. It is about finding the correct inhaler for each individual.
Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) are added if inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) alone are insufficient, though they should not be used as monotherapy. Combination ICS/LABA therapies are preferred for moderate to severe asthma. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) serve as an alternative to LABAs or for patients with allergic rhinitis. Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) are used as rescue medications, and anticholinergics like tiotropium and ipratropium are added for severe asthma or exacerbations.
Oral corticosteroids are reserved for severe exacerbations or uncontrolled chronic asthma and are used cautiously due to side effects. For severe asthma with specific phenotypes, biologic therapies such as anti-IgE (omalizumab), anti-IL-5 (mepolizumab, reslizumab), and anti-IL-4Rα (dupilumab) provide targeted options. Non-pharmacologic management includes patient education on action plans, inhaler techniques, trigger avoidance, pulmonary rehabilitation, and environmental control measures. Regular monitoring through follow-up visits, spirometry, and tools like the Asthma Control Test (ACT) is essential for assessing and adjusting therapy.
FAQ
During an asthma attack, follow your asthma action plan. Use your quick-relief inhaler (SABA) as prescribed. Sit upright, stay calm, and try to take slow, deep breaths. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek emergency medical help immediately.
There is no cure for asthma, but it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Many people with asthma lead normal, active lives by controlling their symptoms and avoiding triggers.
You should see your doctor regularly to monitor your asthma. Typically, follow-up visits are recommended every 1 to 6 months, depending on the severity of your asthma and how well it is controlled. Regular check-ups help adjust treatment and ensure optimal control of symptoms.
