Asthma treatment and diagnosis at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock
Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that can cause recurrent shortness of breath, wheezing, cough and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Symptoms often appear periodically and may intensify under the influence of physical exertion, infections, allergens or contact with irritants. If you notice recurrent breathing problems in yourself or your child, it is worth consulting a specialist. At OpenMed in Warsaw and at OpenMed Płock we carry out the diagnosis and treatment of asthma, helping patients regain control over the disease and improve the comfort of everyday life.
Asthma is a disease in which chronic inflammation of the bronchial mucosa occurs. This causes hyperreactivity of the airways, that is their tendency to narrow under the influence of various stimuli. The narrowing of the bronchi obstructs airflow, which leads to the characteristic symptoms. The severity of the disease can vary greatly - from mild, occasional complaints to symptoms requiring regular treatment and constant monitoring.
Causes and risk factors of asthma
Asthma develops as a result of the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. A higher risk of developing the disease occurs in people with allergies, atopic dermatitis or a positive family history of allergic diseases. Air pollution, tobacco smoke, frequent respiratory infections and exposure to allergens such as house dust mites, plant pollen or animal hair also play a role.
In some patients, symptoms appear mainly after physical exertion, contact with cold air or during infections. That is why identifying the triggering factors is one of the most important elements of effective treatment.
Pulmonology specialists at OpenMed
Book a pulmonology consultation for breathing problems, chronic cough, and respiratory disease monitoring.
Symptoms of asthma
Asthma symptoms can vary in severity and do not always occur every day. Characteristic are periods of exacerbation interspersed with periods of improvement. The most common symptoms include:
- shortness of breath and a feeling of lack of air,
- wheezing, especially during exhalation,
- a chronic or recurrent cough, often intensifying at night and in the early morning,
- a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the chest.
If the symptoms appear regularly, hinder physical activity or disturb sleep, a medical consultation and appropriate tests are necessary.
What does asthma diagnosis at OpenMed look like?
Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history. The doctor asks about the nature of the symptoms, their frequency, the occurrence of allergies and the family history of respiratory diseases. A medical examination is then performed and, depending on the indications, pulmonary function tests and a lung ultrasound.
The basic examination used in the diagnosis of asthma is spirometry, which allows airflow through the airways to be assessed and their narrowing to be detected. In some cases, additional tests are performed, such as a bronchodilator reversibility test, measurement of nitric oxide in exhaled air or allergy diagnostics. The aim is not only to confirm the diagnosis, but also to determine the type of disease and the degree of its severity.
Asthma treatment and disease control
Asthma treatment aims to reduce inflammation, decrease the frequency of exacerbations and enable normal functioning. The doctor selects therapy individually, taking into account the patient's age, the severity of the symptoms and the test results.
The basis of treatment is inhaled medications, which act directly in the airways. An important element of therapy is also educating the patient on the correct inhalation technique and on avoiding the factors that trigger symptoms. Regular follow-up visits make it possible to assess the effectiveness of treatment and, if necessary, modify the therapy.
Well-controlled asthma does not have to limit everyday activity, work or sport. However, systematic treatment and adherence to the doctor's recommendations are of key importance.
Asthma diagnosis and treatment - FAQ
Most often these are a recurrent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
Spirometry is the basic examination used in the diagnosis of asthma and helps assess lung function and the degree of narrowing of the airways.
Asthma is a chronic disease, however appropriately selected treatment makes it possible to effectively control the symptoms and lead an active lifestyle.
Yes. With a properly controlled disease, physical activity is possible and often recommended.
It is worth booking a consultation if you have recurrent shortness of breath, wheezing, a chronic cough or breathing problems during exertion.