Bronchial Asthma-is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that results in recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. These symptoms are usually associated with widespread but variable airflow obstruction that is often reversible either spontaneously or with treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can vary in frequency and severity. They may also vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
1. Shortness of breath
2. Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
3. Chest tightness
4. Chronic cough, particularly at night or early in the morning
5. Difficulty sleeping due to coughing or wheezing
An asthma attack may include severe wheezing, rapid breathing, profuse sweating, blue lips or fingernails, and difficulty speaking.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will typically make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam. They may also order several tests including:
1. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), like spirometry, to measure airflow into and out of your lungs.
2. Peak flow test, which measures how hard you can exhale.
3. Chest X-ray or CT scan to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
4. Allergy tests to identify potential triggers for your asthma.
5. Bronchial challenge test, where a specific substance is inhaled to see if it triggers symptoms.
Treatment
While there’s no cure for asthma, the condition can be managed with proper treatment. This usually involves:
1. Long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation in the airways.
2. Quick-relief (rescue) medications, such as short-acting bronchodilators, which quickly open swollen airways.
3. Allergy medications if allergens are a trigger for your asthma.
4. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) or biologic therapy in some severe cases.
5. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding triggers.
Plan of Care
1. Self-Care: Avoid known triggers, take medications as prescribed, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
2. Asthma Action Plan: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan that outlines medication, identifies triggers, and provides guidance on what to do during an asthma attack.
3. Regular Check-Ups: Regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your asthma, discuss any concerns, and adjust treatment as necessary.
4. Vaccinations: Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, especially the influenza and pneumonia vaccines as respiratory infections can trigger an asthma attack.
5. Education: Learn about asthma, its triggers, symptoms of an asthma attack, and proper use of asthma medications.
Remember, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider regularly and to seek immediate medical attention if you have severe or worsening symptoms.
