Severe bronchial asthma
Severe Asthma: Overview
Severe asthma, or asthma that is not well-controlled despite the use of the available treatment options, affects approximately 10-15% of asthmatics. It can cause frequent and more severe asthmatic episodes, such as shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, and wheezing. Severe cases of asthma can have a significant impact on a person’s life, and in some cases, can even be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Severe Asthma
People with severe asthma may have a higher risk of experiencing asthma attacks, and may also have more severe symptoms than those with mild or moderate asthma. Symptoms of severe asthma may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Trouble sleeping
- Decreased physical activity
- Frequent and/or rapid breathing
Common Causes of Severe Asthma
The exact causes of severe asthma are not fully understood, but a few potential factors have been identified. These include:
- Allergies: Allergies can trigger asthma flare-ups, and people with severe asthma are more likely to have allergies.
- Air pollution: Ozone and other air pollutants have been linked to higher rates of asthma exacerbations.
- Immunological factors: People with severe asthma may have an overreaction of their immune systems, which can lead to an asthma episode.
- Genetics: A family history of asthma can increase your risk of developing severe asthma.
- Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of asthma exacerbations in certain people.
- Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to have severe asthma.
Treatment for Severe Asthma
There is no cure for severe asthma, so treatment focuses on reducing the number and severity of asthma attacks and improving symptom control. Treatment options may include:
- Long-term control medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, and combinations
- Quick-relief medications, such as short-acting bronchodilators
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists
- Immunomodulatory medications
- Biologics
- Omalizumab
- Steroids, either orally or intravenously
- Allergy immunotherapy
- Complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, and herbal remedies
Severe Asthma Prevention
There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing severe asthma, such as:
- Avoiding triggers, such as allergens and air pollutants
- Taking medications as directed
- Not smoking
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress
- Getting regular check-ups