Astma III: classificatie, manifestaties en complicaties

Asthma is classified based on symptom frequency and severity, with the main categories being intermittent and persistent asthma.

People with intermittent asthma generally experience milder respiratory symptoms, while persistent asthma is further subdivided into mild, moderate, and severe subcategories.

Clinical manifestations of asthma include coughing, producing excess mucus, experiencing chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Sometimes, a persistent cough may be the only symptom, especially at night or early in the morning.

Excessive mucus production can cause congestion and phlegm buildup, making it difficult for patients to clear their airways by coughing.

It often results in wheezing, identified by a high-pitched whistling sound during exhalation as air passes through narrowed airways.

People with asthma may experience difficulty breathing, particularly in cold climates or when exposed to pollutants.

Poorly managed asthma can lead to complications such as reduced lung function, respiratory failure, atelectasis, pneumonia, and the severe condition known as status asthmaticus.