Asthma

What is it? How is it defined?

Asthma is defined as a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the

airways, which results in recurrent episodes of wheezing, dyspnea, chest tightness, and

coughing. This inflammation leads to bronchoconstriction, mucosal edema, and increased

mucus production, resulting in airflow obstruction.

What are some of the signs and symptoms?

The typical symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and

coughing. These symptoms may vary in intensity and can be triggered by different factors.

What are some of the different variations? What are some causes?

Asthma severity is classified into intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, and

severe persistent categories based on symptom frequency, nighttime awakenings, and lung

function.

Asthma can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, environmental factors,

respiratory infections, and exposure to allergens or irritants.

What kind of medications are used to treat it acutely?

Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABA): Provide rapid bronchodilation during acute symptoms.

However new GINA guidelines recommend a LABA (formoterol) and a low dose inhaled

corticosteroid.

What kind of medications are used to treat it chronically?

There are a few types of medications that are used to treat chronic asthma. They include

inhaled Corticosteroids to help reduce airway inflammation. As well as long-Acting Beta-

Agonists to provide bronchodilation and are often combined with ICS. Lastly, leukotriene

modifiers block the action of leukotrienes, reducing inflammation.

Patient education also plays a considerable role in long-term treatment of asthma.

Developing personalized asthma action plans, educating patients on proper inhaler technique,

and identifying and addressing triggers are all part of an integrated plan.

How is it diagnosed?

The primary diagnostic test is to utilize spirometry to assess lung function. Focusing on

parameters such as forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity. A

bronchial provocation test may be used to determine airway hyperresponsiveness.

What is the history of asthma?

The term asthma was first used in the medical context during the 17th century. Thomas Willis

used the term to describe a condition characterized by difficulty breathing and wheezing. In

the coming 18th and 19th centuries the understanding of asthma improved with an increased

recognition of the role of bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation. The 20th century saw

significant advancements in the understanding and management of asthma. The role of

allergies and hypersensitivity in asthma was recognized, leading to the development of

immunotherapy as a treatment option. Also, the discovery of bronchodilators, including

epinephrine, marked a breakthrough in acute asthma treatment. In the late 20th century,

inhaled corticosteroids became a cornerstone of asthma management alongside the

development of long-acting-beta-agonist to provide a more effective control of symptoms. In

the 21st century further refined genetic basis of asthma have led to targeted therapies.

Throughout history, the perception of asthma has evolved from mystical causes to a more

scientific understanding of its pathophysiology. Ongoing research continues to refine

treatment strategies and improve the quality of life for individuals living with asthma.

What are some other fun or not fun facts?

 Many well-known individuals, including athletes, actors, and musicians, have asthma.

Some examples include David Beckham, Sarah Jessica Parker, Pink, and Dennis

Rodman.

 Emotional factors such as stress and laughter can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms.

This is known as emotional or stress-induced asthma. On the flip side, laughter can also

be a good workout for the respiratory system.

 Asthma can affect both males and females, but studies have shown that it is more

common in boys during childhood and more common in women during adulthood.

 Just as humans can have asthma, animals can, too. Cats and dogs can develop asthma-like

symptoms, and veterinarians may diagnose them with feline or canine asthma.