Milmedika

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airway lining that leads to occasional airflow restriction and symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing. The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but certain external factors are believed to trigger symptoms in individuals with a genetic predisposition.

Is asthma a hereditary condition?

While asthma is not strictly a genetic disease, hereditary factors play a significant role. One of the most studied genetic traits is atopy—a tendency toward allergic reactions. People with atopic conditions have a higher risk of developing allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and food allergies.

Can infections trigger an asthma attack?

People with asthma often experience periodic flare-ups, alternating with symptom-free periods. They have increased airway sensitivity, known as bronchial hyperreactivity, which means their airways may overreact to various external triggers, including:

• Airborne allergens
• Tobacco smoke
• Smog and chemicals
• Physical activity
• Weather changes
• Infections

Respiratory viral infections are particularly significant asthma triggers, often causing more severe and prolonged symptoms in individuals with asthma compared to those without the condition.

How can asthma be recognized in children?

More than half of asthma cases develop in childhood. Common signs of asthma in children include:

• Persistent coughing, especially at night and early morning
• Coughing during physical activity
• Wheezing or audible breathing
• Difficulty breathing, which can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the body

In infants, breathing difficulties often present as chest retractions (the skin between the ribs pulling inward during breathing). In older children and adults, severe breathing issues may manifest as visible retractions at the base of the neck or an inability to speak full sentences due to shortness of breath.

How Is asthma diagnosed?

Asthma is diagnosed based on a patient’s medical history and symptom patterns, especially when symptoms improve with asthma treatment. Clinical examinations and lung auscultation are essential, but additional diagnostic methods include:

• Allergy testing (skin prick tests or blood tests measuring specific IgE antibodies)
• Spirometry, a test that evaluates lung function and confirms airway obstruction

Asthma treatment

Asthma treatment relies on two main groups of medications:

1. Reliever medications – bronchodilators that quickly alleviate symptoms, usually administered through inhalers or nebulized solutions.
2. Controller medications – taken daily to prevent symptoms, with inhaled corticosteroids being the most important due to their direct anti-inflammatory effects on the airways.

Modern asthma management follows a stepwise approach, adjusting treatment based on disease severity and symptom frequency while strictly adhering to standardized guidelines.

Are corticosteroids safe for children?

Systemic corticosteroids (taken as pills or injections) are reserved for severe cases and short-term use only. However, inhaled corticosteroids are safe and effective because they act directly on the airways, with minimal systemic effects.

Can a child with asthma play sports?

Yes—and not only they can, but they should! Regular physical activity is an essential part of asthma therapy. When properly managed with medication, most asthma patients can participate in any sport, and many professional athletes successfully compete while managing asthma.

Preventive measures

• Avoiding tobacco smoke, especially for children and pregnant women
• Regular check-ups with a pulmonologist (3–4 times per year)
• Patient education on the disease and proper medication use
• Monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatment in consultation with a doctor

There is no scientific evidence that specific diets, supplements, or alternative treatments (such as homeopathy or acupuncture) significantly improve asthma control. Successful asthma management relies on regular medical follow-ups and personalized treatment plans.