People with asthma have wheezing, shortness of breath, intermittent cough and chest tightness. It is caused by different triggers and relieved by medications that dilate bronchi and relieve inflammation. Asthma may be acquired or hereditary. It can be mild or severe and symptoms start suddenly or progress slowly. Symptoms can be present daily, weekly or once in a while. Rarely, asthmatic episode can even cause death.
Pulmonary function test in a combination with detailed history and physical exam is used to diagnose asthma. Allergy testing is also very important if asthma is triggered by allergies.
There are many medications used to treat asthma. They can be in a form of inhalers, tablets, syrups, or injections. Some medications are used to prevent asthma exacerbations while quick relief medicines are used during acute episodes.
For susceptible individuals It is very crucial to avoid asthma triggers like dust, mold, cigarette smoke, stress, pollen or certain animas. Some asthmatics may have worse symptoms if the use aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or any other medications in that class.
People with asthma should be proactive during cold and flu season and have all their vaccinations done.
Infection with COVID 19 may also lead to severe asthma exacerbation.
