Asthma: A Common Chronic Respiratory Disease

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease characterized by airway narrowing, due to smooth muscle spasms, airway inflammation, and mucus production. The symptoms of asthma can vary widely from person to person and can be triggered by a variety of factors.

1. Symptoms of Asthma

• Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing, usually more noticeable when breathing out.
• Shortness of breath: This is a key symptom of asthma. It can be mild or severe, depending on the severity of the asthma attack.
  • Breathing patterns: Increased rate of breathing, shallow breathing
  • Accessory muscle use: Use of chest muscles to help with breathing, leading to indrawing of the chest wall
  • PaO2 (arterial oxygen pressure): Decreased
  • PaCO2 (arterial carbon dioxide pressure): May be elevated in severe cases of asthma
  • Consciousness: Difficulty speaking, broken speech, or inability to speak (in severe cases of asthma)
• Coughing: Often a dry, hacking cough, especially at night or after exercise
• Chest tightness: A feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest
• Increased heart rate: The heart beats faster.
• %PEF (peak expiratory flow): Significantly decreased, especially after bronchodilator therapy.

2. Risk Factors for Asthma

• Genetics: Having a family history of asthma.
• Exposure to allergens:
  • Dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, chemicals…
  • Foods: Eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, shellfish…
• Smoking: Secondhand smoke is also a risk factor.
• Environmental pollution: Smoke, fumes, vehicle exhaust…
• Respiratory infections: Rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis…
• Physical activity: Strenuous exercise, vigorous activity in cold weather…

3. Classification of Asthma

• Extrinsic asthma: Caused by allergies.
  • Allergic asthma:
    • Positive skin prick test: Positive reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander…
• Intrinsic asthma: Caused by factors other than allergies, such as infections, medications, environmental pollution…

4. Asthma Management

• Symptom relief: Using bronchodilators to relax airway muscles, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce airway inflammation, and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and airway muscle spasm.
• Disease control:
  • Avoid exposure to allergens.
  • Engage in regular, moderate exercise.
  • Take medications as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Monitor lung function regularly.

Important Notes:

• Asthma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment and regular monitoring.
• Take your medication at the correct dose, and do not change or stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.
• Always carry your rescue inhaler with you to treat asthma attacks promptly.
• Consult a specialist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Additional information:

• In addition to the symptoms above, asthma can also manifest with other symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath when sleeping, and chest tightness.
• Asthma is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, lung function tests, allergy tests, and exclusion of other diseases.
• Patients need to adhere to their doctor’s instructions for effective asthma control and quality of life.

Warning:

• Asthma can be fatal if not managed promptly and effectively.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as severe shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, altered consciousness, or bluish skin discoloration.

Asthma is a common respiratory condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. However, with proper management and treatment, people with asthma can live full and active lives. If you suspect you or someone you know has asthma, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.