Asthma & AAFA Guidelines

Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition that affects the airways, inflaming and constricting them. Asthma sufferers may find it challenging to breathe normally as a result, which may cause symptoms including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Causes:

Although the precise factors causing asthma are still not fully known, it is believed to be a result of both hereditary and environmental factors. Allergens including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, respiratory illnesses, air pollution, exercise, and specific drugs are some of the major asthma triggers.

Types:

There are several types of asthma, including:

• ·         Allergic asthma: triggered by exposure to allergens
• ·         Non-allergic asthma: triggered by factors other than allergens
• ·         Asthma that is not allergic to things is brought on by other things.
• ·         Exercise-induced asthma is asthma brought on by exercise.
• ·         Workplace exposure to specific chemicals or compounds can cause occupational asthma.
• ·         Early onset of asthma in children

Stages:

·         Asthma is a chronic disease that typically progresses through several stages. These stages include:

• ·         Mild intermittent asthma: symptoms occur less than twice a week, with symptom-free periods in between.
• ·         Mild persistent asthma: symptoms occur more than twice a week but not daily.
• ·         Moderate persistent asthma: symptoms occur daily and may affect activities of daily living.
• ·         Severe persistent asthma: symptoms occur throughout the day and may be difficult to control with medications.

Signs & Symptoms:

The signs and symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person and may include:

·         Wheezing

·         Coughing, especially at night or early morning

·         Shortness of breath

·         Chest tightness

·         Difficulty breathing

·         Rapid breathing

·         Fatigue during exercise

Diagnostic Criteria:

Lung function tests, a physical examination, and medical history are frequently used to diagnose asthma. Your doctor might inquire about your signs and symptoms, any trigger exposure, and any family history of allergies or asthma. A physical examination could involve using a stethoscope to listen to your lungs and look for any indications of inflammation or other respiratory problems. Spirometry, a test for lung function, may determine how quickly and how much air you can inhale and expel.

Investigation:

To diagnose and treat asthma, further testing besides lung function exams may be required. These may consist of:

• ·         Testing for allergies to find triggers,
• ·         CT or chest X-ray to assess lung function,
• ·         Exhaled nitric oxide test to measure inflammation in the airways.

Treatment:

Asthma does not yet have a cure, although it can be effectively treated with medicine and a change in lifestyle. Typical asthma treatment includes:

• ·         Bronchodilators are inhaled to widen airways and alleviate symptoms.
• ·         Corticosteroids for inhalation to lessen airway inflammation
• ·         Combination inhalers with corticosteroids and bronchodilators
• ·         Immune system desensitization with allergy injections
• ·         Avoiding irritants and allergens that act as triggers
• ·         Monitoring frequently and modifying the course of action as necessary.

 Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) Guidelines

Guidelines for the management of asthma have been developed by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), two preeminent healthcare organizations, have provided recommendations and the most recent research on which these recommendations are based. The AAFA asthma recommendations are as follows:

• 1)    Develop an Asthma Action Plan: A written plan that outlines how to manage asthma symptoms, including which medications to take, when to take them, and what to do in case of an asthma attack.
• 2)    Monitor Asthma Symptoms: Regularly track asthma symptoms and use of medication to evaluate asthma control and adjust treatment as needed.
• 3)    Take Medications as Prescribed: Take prescribed medications regularly, as directed, even if you have no symptoms.
• 4)    Know Your Triggers: Identify triggers that can make asthma symptoms worse, such as allergens, irritants, and exercise, and take steps to avoid them.
• 5)    Use Inhalers Correctly: Use inhalers correctly and consistently, as improper use can reduce medication effectiveness and lead to increased symptoms.
• 6)    Get Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor asthma control, adjust treatment as needed, and screen for other health conditions.
• 7)    Address Coexisting Conditions: Address coexisting conditions that can affect asthma control, such as allergies, acid reflux, and sinusitis.
• 8)    Consider Immunotherapy: Consider immunotherapy (allergy shots) if allergies are a significant trigger for asthma symptoms.
• 9)    Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can improve lung function and overall health.
• 10) Seek Emergency Care: Seek emergency care if asthma symptoms are severe or not responding to medication, or if experiencing chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing.

In conclusion, with the right diagnosis, therapy, and lifestyle modifications, asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can be effectively managed. It's crucial to contact a doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment if you think you or a loved one may have asthma.

Dr.Muhammad Arsalan Khan
MBBS, DHHM, MSc (D & E)
CCD-BMJ-AKU-RCP (London)