Asthma treatments

Asthma is a breathing condition that affects the respiratory system. When someone has asthma, their lungs become inflamed. This particularly affects the tiny airways (bronchioles) and small air sacs (alveoli) that help us breathe. The condition is common and can develop at any point in life, from birth onwards.

Symptoms of asthma

Asthma symptoms can be persistent or irregular, and the severity may change over time. The main signs include difficulty breathing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, and a characteristic whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out. It's important to note that sometimes symptoms can worsen rapidly, leading to asthma attacks. These are serious episodes that can be life-threatening.

Triggers and causes of asthma

While the exact cause of asthma isn't fully understood, it tends to run in families. Research suggests that factors like genetic predisposition, environmental pollution, and our modern approach to cleanliness may contribute to its development. Various things can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms, including exposure to dust mites, pollen, cold temperatures, and physical exertion where you get out of breath.

How to manage and prevent asthma

Although there isn't a cure for asthma, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment to keep symptoms under control. The key is to have a regular asthma review with your GP. As well as knowing and avoiding what triggers your asthma, getting your annual flu vaccination, keeping track of your breathing, having the right asthma inhalers, and using them correctly.

Your treatment plan will usually include two types of inhalers:

• A preventer you use every day to manage ongoing symptoms.
• A reliever that provides quick relief during flare-ups or when you feel you’re about to have an asthma attack.

It's important to follow your doctor or clinician’s prescribed treatment plan and use your asthma inhalers as advised.