Top Health Science 
What is Bronchial Asthma?
Bronchial asthma is a condition in which the airways intermittently narrow, causing shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. These symptoms occur in a recurrent and episodic manner. Asthma is a common disease worldwide, affecting both children and adults, and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. In South Korea, approximately 5-10% of the population is estimated to have asthma. Similar to hypertension and diabetes, asthma is a chronic disease that requires continuous treatment and management. With proper treatment, individuals with asthma can lead a normal life.
When Should You Suspect Asthma?
- Recurring wheezing (whistling sound when breathing)
- Shortness of breath and persistent coughing
- Symptoms worsening at night or early morning
- Wheezing or coughing triggered by physical activity
- Symptoms worsening with a cold and lasting more than 10 days
- Symptoms triggered or worsened by dust mites, pollen, air pollution, or smoking
Asthma is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with a family history of allergic diseases are at a higher risk of developing asthma. Allergens such as dust mites, pet hair, and dander, as well as environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke, can significantly increase the likelihood of asthma development.
How is Asthma Diagnosed?
Asthma can be difficult to distinguish from other respiratory diseases such as the common cold. Therefore, a physician’s evaluation and specific tests are necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
- A detailed examination, including listening for wheezing sounds using a stethoscope.
- Pulmonary function tests to measure lung capacity.
- Bronchodilator response tests to assess improvement after inhaling a bronchodilator.
- Bronchial provocation tests to determine airway sensitivity.
- Allergy tests, including skin prick tests or blood tests, to identify potential allergens.
How is Asthma Treated?
Asthma medications are available in both inhalable and oral forms. Inhalers are preferred as they deliver medication directly to the airways, providing rapid relief with minimal side effects. Asthma medications are categorized into controller medications and reliever medications. Controller medications help reduce airway inflammation and must be used consistently, even when symptoms are absent. Reliever medications, on the other hand, provide immediate symptom relief during acute exacerbations. Treatment should be individualized based on the severity and frequency of symptoms.
For individuals with identified allergens, immunotherapy can be considered. This involves administering gradually increasing doses of the allergen via subcutaneous injections or sublingual tablets to reduce sensitivity and improve symptoms over time.
How Can Asthma Exacerbations Be Prevented?
Regular use of prescribed asthma medications and concurrent treatment of allergic rhinitis, if present, are essential. Environmental control is also crucial in reducing exposure to asthma triggers. The following steps are recommended:
- Avoid smoking, and ensure that household members do not smoke.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water (above 131°F).
- Avoid using carpets, fabric sofas, and curtains whenever possible.
- Eliminate cockroaches and mold from indoor spaces.
- Clean the house regularly, and avoid staying indoors immediately after vacuuming.
- Avoid keeping furry pets indoors.
- Steer clear of strong odors from sprays, gas, and chemicals.
- During high pollen seasons, stay indoors and keep windows closed.
- Avoid outdoor activities during severe air pollution, smog, or dust storms. When necessary, wear a protective mask.
- Practice good personal hygiene, such as washing hands and brushing teeth, to prevent respiratory infections.
- Get annual flu vaccinations.
- Manage stress effectively, as psychological distress can trigger asthma attacks.
Daily Life Considerations for Asthma Patients
Exercise Guidelines
Individuals with asthma can participate in any form of exercise; however, intense activities like running or soccer may be more likely to trigger symptoms. Swimming, which involves warm and humid conditions, is often well-tolerated.
- Avoid exercising if asthma is poorly controlled, or if the weather is extremely cold or dry.
- Use a reliever inhaler 15 minutes before exercise.
- Engage in at least 10 minutes of warm-up exercises before starting.
- If symptoms occur during exercise, stop immediately and use a reliever inhaler.
Dietary Considerations
There is no specific diet proven to cure asthma. However, overeating can cause stomach distension, which may push against the diaphragm and worsen breathing difficulties. Some asthma patients are sensitive to sulfites found in beer, wine, and certain foods. Those with sulfite sensitivity should avoid foods containing these preservatives.
