Understanding Asthma

Figuring out your particular triggers for an asthma attack is an important first step in managing your asthma.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that can cause breathing difficulty in children and adults. Although medical research has not precisely determined the cause of asthma, we know that during an asthma attack there is contraction of the muscles in the airways of the lungs, increased mucous production and swelling of the airways. Consequently, patients can develop breathing symptoms such as chest tightness, noisy breathing or wheezing and a cough. These breathing symptoms can also be found in other respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and respiratory tract infections. Your healthcare provider can diagnose asthma through analyzing lab results, reviewing your medical history, performing a physical exam, and breathing tests such as spirometry.

Spirometry is a type of breathing test that can be used to diagnose asthma. In addition, a peak flow monitor can be used to monitor symptoms in patients with asthma. Using a peak flow meter, the speed of air leaving the lungs can be measured and used to determine how well a patient’s asthma is controlled. Patients can also use peak flow meters at home to help monitor their asthma symptoms.

It is important that patients know their triggers for an asthma attack to help them stay safe. Sometimes patients will be given an asthma action plan. An asthma action plan can help patients understand how and when to use their asthma medications, monitor their symptoms, and know what to do if their breathing worsens. An asthma action plan can also include contact information of a healthcare provider or medications for use during an emergency. You can learn more about and download an action plan template at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s website: https://aafa.org/asthma/asthma-treatment/asthma-treatment-action-plan/.

Keep in mind that periodically new treatment recommendations are released and may be suggested by your healthcare provider to better control and treat asthma. Asthma medications can help to reverse and prevent the inflammation and the narrowing of airways in the lungs.

Please talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about asthma.