Is bronchial asthma treatable? Symptoms that should cause concern
Asthma is a chronic disease with a high incidence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 300 million people worldwide currently suffer from asthma, and this number is steadily increasing. In Poland, estimated data from the ECAP study indicate that approximately 4 million people suffer from asthma. It is the most common chronic disease among children and people under 30 years of age.
We talk with pulmonologist Anna Dudzińska about concerns, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Sudden shortness of breath is definitely a symptom of bronchial asthma. That's how we associate this disease. What are other symptoms of asthma?
The most common symptoms of the disease, apart from dyspnea , i.e. the persistent feeling of lack of air, include:
- wheezing,
- feeling of tightness in the chest,
- paroxysmal, dry cough, usually worsening at night and in the morning, often accompanied by shortness of breath.
The most common triggers for asthma attacks and exacerbations include respiratory infections , primarily viral, allergens, air pollution (including tobacco smoke), strong emotions, physical exertion, weather changes, and certain medications. Asthma symptoms will vary from person to person.
Can you point out the symptoms that should prompt a patient to see a doctor immediately?
The symptoms of asthma that you should pay special attention to and see a doctor immediately include:
- shortness of breath at rest,
- excessive shortness of breath that occurs after even the slightest exertion,
- prolonged cough, dry, sometimes wheezing with a feeling of tightness in the chest.
How is asthma diagnosed?
Diagnostics primarily involves a patient interview, a physical examination , and additional tests. These include spirometry with a dilation test , a lung X-ray, allergy testing ( skin allergy tests), and serum IgE antibody titers. We also perform a provocation test, most often in individuals with typical asthma symptoms and normal spirometry results. Another test is a peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurement, used to diagnose and monitor the disease.
You mentioned an allergic basis for the disease. Can asthma be nonallergic? What are the causes of asthma?
is divided into allergic and non-allergic asthma based on its etiology . Asthma is most often diagnosed in childhood . In childhood, asthma often coexists with other atopic diseases, usually with positive skin prick tests and high serum IgE antibody titers. Non-allergic asthma is usually diagnosed in adults when neither allergens nor specific IgE antibodies can be detected. It usually has a progressive course, and a poor response to treatment is often observed.
And now the important question for all asthmatics: Can asthma be cured?
Asthma cannot be cured , but proper treatment can generally bring the disease under control. The goal of treatment is to achieve and maintain symptom control and normal life activities, including the ability to exercise, while minimizing the risk of exacerbations and adverse effects.
What if we don't seek treatment? What could the consequences be?
In the case of asthma, failure to follow doctor's recommendations can lead to a life-threatening exacerbation. Asthma reduces quality of life and hinders normal functioning, leading to permanent impairment of respiratory function. Untreated asthma can lead to chronic respiratory failure, which is why it is essential to treat it.
Does a diagnosis of asthma require a special diet?
There's no specific diet for asthma. Of course, it's important to follow healthy eating habits to maintain a healthy weight and good health. If your asthma is allergic, you should introduce certain dietary restrictions after allergy testing.
Let's follow a healthy diet, but wisely, preferably under the supervision of a dietitian.
Recommended links:
https://pacjent.gov.pl/jak-zyc-z-choroba/czy-masz-astme
https://ezdrowie.gov.pl/5678
https://ncez.pzh.gov.pl/tag/astma/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/query/acc.cgi?acc=GSE193816
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.