Asthma

What is Asthma?

• Asthma is a chronic lung disease in which the airways become inflamed, narrowed, and filled with mucus, making breathing difficult.
• It causes recurring breathing problems that vary from mild to severe.
• Affects about 262 million people worldwide.
• One of the most common chronic diseases in children.

What Happens in Asthma?

• Airway inflammation
• Tightening of airway muscles
• Excess mucus production

Symptoms of Asthma

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing (whistling sound while breathing)
• Persistent cough (often worse at night)
• Chest tightness
• Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis of Asthma

• Medical and symptom history
• Physical examination
• Lung function tests (spirometry)
• Breathing assessment tests
• Allergy evaluation (if needed)

Treatment of Asthma

• Long-Term Control Medicines
  • Inhaled corticosteroids (reduce inflammation)
  • Combination inhalers
  • Leukotriene modifiers
• Quick-Relief Medicines
  • Bronchodilator inhalers (rapid symptom relief)