Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. While there is no cure for asthma, effective management strategies can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with this condition. Talking to the Onlymyhealth team, Dr Kinjal Modi, Consultant, Pulmonology, PD, Hinduja Hospital & MCR, Khar spoke about the best treatment options available for asthma, focusing on the best approaches to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.
Diagnosing Asthma
The first step towards treating asthma is diagnosing it. “Diagnosing asthma involves a comprehensive approach,” said Dr Modi. He listed:
- Medical History: Doctors gather information about a patient's symptoms, family history of asthma or allergies, and any known triggers that may worsen asthma symptoms.
- Physical Exams: A thorough physical examination, particularly focusing on the respiratory system, helps healthcare providers assess lung function and identify potential signs of asthma.
- Lung Function Tests (Spirometry): Spirometry is a key diagnostic tool used to measure lung function. This test assesses how well the lungs are functioning by measuring the volume and speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled.
- Allergy Tests: In some cases, allergy tests may be conducted to identify specific allergens that can trigger asthma symptoms, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould.
“Once asthma is diagnosed, the next step is to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs and severity of asthma symptoms,” said Dr Modi.
Best Treatment Approaches for Asthma
Dr Modi said that the best asthma treatment involves a multifaceted approach that combines medication management, trigger avoidance strategies, and regular monitoring of lung function.
Avoiding Triggers
One of the fundamental aspects of asthma management is identifying and avoiding triggers that can exacerbate asthma symptoms. “Common triggers include allergens (pollen, dust, mould), air pollution, smoke, cold air, respiratory infections, and certain medications,” said Dr Modi. He advised that by minimising exposure to triggers, individuals with asthma can reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
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Using Inhalers (Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids)
Inhalers, also known as asthma inhalers or metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), are a cornerstone of asthma treatment. There are two main types of inhalers used in asthma management according to the National Health Service:
- Bronchodilators: These medications help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. Short-acting bronchodilators are used as rescue inhalers during asthma attacks, while long-acting bronchodilators are taken regularly to maintain airway openness.
- Corticosteroids: Inhaled corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation, which is a key component of asthma. They are often prescribed as controller medications to prevent asthma symptoms and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.
Allergy Medications or Immunotherapy
Dr Modi said, “For individuals with asthma triggered by allergies, allergy medications such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage allergic reactions and prevent asthma exacerbations.” He recommended that in cases where allergies play a significant role in asthma symptoms, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy) may be recommended to desensitise the immune system to specific allergens over time.
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Individuals with asthma need to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalised asthma action plan that addresses their unique needs, lifestyle, and asthma triggers. By following an effective treatment regimen and making lifestyle adjustments, individuals with asthma can achieve better symptom control, reduce the risk of asthma attacks, and lead a fulfilling life despite their respiratory condition.