Asthma control patient overview

Overview

Asthma is a long-term condition that affects the airways in your lungs. When you have asthma, the airways can become inflamed and narrow, making it hard to breathe. Good asthma control means you can prevent symptoms and live an active life with few or no problems.

Yes, asthma is very common. Millions of people around the world have asthma, and it is one of the most common long-term conditions in children.

Asthma can affect anyone, but it often begins in childhood. It is more common in boys during childhood, but in adults it is more common in women. People with a family history of asthma or allergies are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing out)
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pain
• Coughing, especially at night or early morning

Symptoms in children

• Frequent coughing, especially when playing or laughing
• Tiring easily during exercise
• Breathing faster than usual
• Complaints of chest or tummy discomfort

Symptoms in older adults

• Shortness of breath during daily activities
• Frequent chest infections or colds that seem to linger
• Wheezing that gets worse at night or with certain triggers
• Confusion or tiredness due to low oxygen levels (this is a serious sign)

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood. It is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Your immune system may react to certain triggers, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.

Risk factors

• Having a parent or sibling with asthma or allergies
• Having allergies yourself (like hay fever or eczema)
• Being exposed to tobacco smoke or air pollution
• Certain respiratory infections in early childhood
• Being overweight or obese

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your symptoms are getting worse despite using your usual medication
• If you need to use your reliever inhaler more than four times in a 24-hour period
• If you experience a severe asthma attack (see emergency symptoms above)

Book a routine appointment if:

• For a regular asthma review at least once a year, even if you feel well
• When you first notice asthma symptoms like persistent cough, wheeze, or shortness of breath
• To update or check your asthma action plan

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will usually diagnose asthma based on your symptoms, medical history, and simple breathing tests. They may also check for allergies.

Tests that may be done

• Spirometry: You blow into a machine to measure how much air you can exhale and how fast
• Peak flow meter: A handheld device you blow into to see how well your lungs are working (you can use this at home too)
• FeNO test: You breathe into a machine that measures inflammation in the airways
• Allergy tests: Skin prick or blood tests to see if allergens trigger your asthma

What to expect at your appointment

The process is straightforward and painless. You may need to avoid certain medications or foods before the tests. Your doctor will explain the results and work with you to create a treatment plan.

Treatment

Asthma treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing attacks. Most people use two types of inhalers: a reliever for quick symptom relief, and a preventer to reduce inflammation over time. Treatment is tailored to your needs.

Self-care at home

• Learn your asthma triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
• Use your inhalers correctly — ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you the proper technique.
• Keep a symptom diary to share with your healthcare provider.
• Have an asthma action plan that tells you what to do when symptoms worsen.

Medical treatments

Medical treatments include inhaled medications that help open the airways (relievers) and reduce inflammation (preventers). Some people may also need combination inhalers or additional medications like tablets. Your doctor will prescribe the right treatment based on your asthma severity and control. It is important to take your medications as prescribed, even if you feel well.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not typically used for asthma. However, in very rare and severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, a procedure called bronchial thermoplasty may be considered. This is only done by specialists in specialized centers.

Living with this condition

Asthma can be well-managed with a good routine. Most people with asthma can do all the things they love, including sports and travel. The key is to know your triggers, take your medication regularly, and have an asthma action plan ready in case of an attack.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen if you are allergic.
• Use a peak flow meter to monitor your lung function at home.
• Get regular exercise — it can actually improve your lung health.
• Manage stress, as it can trigger asthma symptoms.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is good for overall health but does not cure asthma. Some people find that certain foods (like dairy) make their symptoms worse, but this is not true for everyone. Exercise is encouraged for everyone with asthma, but warm up slowly and use your reliever inhaler before exercise if your doctor advises it.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with asthma can sometimes cause anxiety or stress, especially if you worry about attacks. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any fears you have. Managing your asthma well can reduce anxiety, and support groups can help you connect with others who understand.

Prevention

Asthma cannot be prevented entirely, but you can reduce the risk of developing symptoms or attacks by avoiding triggers and managing your environment. If you already have asthma, good control means fewer attacks and better quality of life.

Vaccines

Getting recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and pneumonia vaccine, can help prevent respiratory infections that might trigger asthma attacks. Ask your doctor which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for asthma in the general population. But if you have symptoms like persistent cough or wheeze, your doctor can perform tests to see if you have asthma.

Complications

If left untreated

• Frequent asthma attacks that may require emergency care
• Long-term damage to the airways (airway remodeling)
• Poor sleep, fatigue, and reduced ability to exercise or work
• Severe asthma attacks that can be life-threatening

Long-term outlook

Asthma is a lifelong condition for most people, but with the right treatment and self-management, the outlook is very good. Many people with asthma lead full, active, and healthy lives. Advances in treatment continue to improve control and quality of life.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.