Asthma Symptoms and Diagnosis

Asthma Symptoms

• Asthma symptoms vary, both in severity and frequency, and can range from mild to severe.
• Common symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.
• Wheezing is a whistling sound produced during breathing, often more prominent during exhalation.
• Shortness of breath may be described as difficulty catching one's breath or a feeling of not being able to get enough air.
• Chest tightness is a sensation of pressure or constriction in the chest.
• Coughing is a frequent symptom, particularly at night or early in the morning.
• Symptoms may be triggered by various factors, including allergens, irritants, exercise, or respiratory infections.

Asthma Diagnosis

• Diagnosing asthma involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests.
• A thorough medical history is crucial, including detailed accounts of symptom patterns, triggers, and family history.
• Physical examination can reveal signs like wheezing, reduced airflow, or hyperinflated chest.
• Spirometry is a common diagnostic tool, measuring lung function by assessing airflow.
• Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) monitoring allows individuals to track personal best values and detect changes in lung function.
• Bronchodilator responsiveness tests involve administering a bronchodilator medication to assess whether lung function improves.
• Allergy testing may be necessary to identify potential allergic triggers.
• Chest X-rays and other imaging tests are sometimes used to rule out other conditions.
• Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing can gauge airway inflammation.
• A combination of these methods aids in accurate asthma diagnosis and distinguishes it from other respiratory conditions.