Asthma is the inflammation of airways or the bronchial tubes in the lungs. It is a chronic disease that makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. According to recent statistics, an estimated 24 million people suffer from asthma in the country.
Diagnosing the symptoms of asthma
For most patients with asthma, the timing of the symptoms is closely related to physical activity. As a result, a seemingly healthy person can develop asthmatic symptoms only when exercising. This is known as EIB (exercise-induced bronchoconstriction) or EIA (exercise-induced asthma). People with a family history of asthma or allergies are more prone to develop the condition. There are two types of asthma:
- Childhood asthma: This type of asthma can develop as early as five years of age. Some doctors suggest that childhood asthma can be hereditary.
- Occupational asthma: It is caused by inhaling substances, fumes, dust, or other potentially harmful gases while on the job.
Most allergists and doctors suggest that chronic coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and pain, and shortness of breath can be the most common symptoms of asthma. But the symptoms can differ for different people. Asthma flare-ups are caused due to exposure to allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold, dust mites, or changes in weather.
Asthma is diagnosed through medical history and performing breathing tests to measure how well the lungs work.
One such test is called spirometry, which requires the patient to blow air into a spirometer. The device measures the amount of air the lungs can hold and speed of air during inhalation and exhalation. Below average values suggest weak lungs or inflammation of airways.
An exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) test helps in determining if there is lung inflammation and how well the inhaled medication is suppressing the inflammation. People suffering from asthma who are not aware of the allergens undergo allergy testing. The doctors determine the type of allergies that can be avoided to keep asthmatic symptoms at bay.
Treating and managing asthma
The symptoms of asthma can be controlled using effective treatment and management. This involves using direct medications and learning about various triggers that can cause asthma symptoms. The doctors or allergists will prescribe medications and treatment plans that can help relieve the symptoms of asthma. The following medications are used for treating asthma.
- Corticosteroids: Inhaled corticosteroids such as beclomethasone, budesonide, ciclesonide, flunisolide, fluticasone, and mometasone are taken using inhalers. The medications decrease the inflammation in the airways of the lungs. It is also used for treating the flare-ups.
- Long-acting beta-agonists: LABAs or Long-acting beta-agonists are prescribed to relax the muscle lining of the airways of the lungs. This allows the airways to open and breathe easier. LABAs are used in dry powder or metered-dosed inhaler.
- Short-acting beta-agonists: SABAs or short-acting beta-agonists are used to provide quick relief from asthma symptoms. The treatment is also prescribed to be taken before exercising to prevent EIB. It is recommended to visit an allergist or immunologist if a person uses SABA more than twice a week.
