Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

Diagnosis and management of asthma start with healthcare providers systematically gathering the patient's clinical history, including reports of wheezing, chest tightness, breathlessness at rest or during light exercise, and productive cough.

Next, lung function tests, such as spirometry and peak flow measurements, help evaluate asthma severity.

Additional tests, such as the methacholine challenge test or exercise challenge test, help induce bronchoconstriction and assess airway hyper-responsiveness.

Blood tests, particularly eosinophil counts, identify eosinophilic inflammation, and allergy testing helps identify triggers that may exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Chest X-rays can reveal signs of hyperinflation and diaphragm flattening.

Pharmacological management includes long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, in combination with bronchodilators, like long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonists and leukotriene modifiers, taken daily to prevent attacks.

Quick-relief medications address acute symptoms, such as short-acting inhaled beta-2 adrenergic agonists, anticholinergics, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Most asthma medications are typically administered through metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, or nebulizers.