Asthma: Around 10% of Belgians suffer from it

Asthma is a common condition that affects the airways and causes breathing difficulties. It can significantly impact a person's quality of life, but with the right knowledge, treatment, and self-care, people with asthma can lead active and fulfilling lives.

Asthma: What is it?

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways that is accompanied by periodic episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. These symptoms are caused by a combination of inflammation and narrowing of the airways, as well as excessive mucus production. Asthma can range from mild to severe and can be influenced by various factors, including allergies, respiratory infections, air pollution, smoke, and even stress.

AsthmaWhat are the symptoms?

The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

1. Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing, especially during exhalation.
2. Shortness of breath: The feeling of not getting enough air, as if breathing is restricted.
3. Chest tightness: A pressing feeling on the chest, as if a heavy load is resting on it.
4. Coughing: Especially at night or in the early morning, the cough may worsen upon exposure to triggers such as allergens or cold air.

Asthma: How to treaten?

Although asthma cannot be cured, treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. Treatment often involves the use of medications, including:

1. Anti-inflammatories (corticosteroids)These medicines reduce inflammation in the airways and help to decrease sensitivity to triggers.
2. BronchodilatorsThese medicines help to open the airways by relaxing the muscles around them, making breathing easier during an asthma attack.
3. Leukotriene inhibitorsThese medications can be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage asthma symptoms.
4. ImmunotherapyFor people with allergy-related asthma, immunotherapy may be recommended to desensitise the immune system to specific allergens.

Besides medication, there are also steps that people with asthma can take to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being:

1. Identify and avoid triggersRead which factors can worsen your asthma, such as allergens, smoke or cold air, and take measures to minimise exposure.
2. Use an asthma action planWork with your doctor to create a plan that outlines how to manage your asthma and what to do during an asthma attack.
3. Regular physical activityDespite asthma, regular exercise is important for maintaining good health. Choose low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
4. Stop smokingSmoking can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, seek help to quit.

Asthma: What are the dangers?

Failure to follow treatment for asthma can have serious consequences for an individual's health and well-being. Some of the potential dangers of not treating asthma include:

1. Decline in lung functionUntreated asthma can lead to a gradual decline in lung function over time. Repeated inflammation and narrowing of the airways can cause scarring and structural changes, which can result in permanent lung damage.
2. More frequent and severe asthma attacksWithout treatment, people with asthma are more prone to frequent and more severe asthma attacks. These attacks can lead to severe breathing difficulties, hospital admissions, and even life-threatening situations.
3. ComplicationsUntreated asthma increases the risk of complications such as pneumonia, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), pneumomediastinum (air in the space between the lungs), and atelectasis (collapsed lung). These complications can be serious and sometimes require urgent medical intervention.
4. Reduced quality of lifeUntreated asthma can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing can impede daily activities, making it difficult to work, attend school, or enjoy life.
5. Psychological impactAsthma can also take a psychological toll, particularly if it is not adequately treated. People with untreated asthma may experience anxiety, stress and depression due to the constant worry of managing their symptoms and the fear of severe attacks.

It is therefore vital for people with asthma to follow a treatment plan drawn up by a healthcare professional, take medication regularly as prescribed, avoid triggers and manage their asthma well.

Living with Asthma

It is important for people with asthma to learn how to effectively manage their condition and strive for a good quality of life. This includes understanding their medication, avoiding triggers, and learning to recognise early signs of an asthma attack. With the right treatment and self-care, people with asthma can lead active lives, free from unnecessary limitations caused by their condition.

Asthma can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it's possible to maintain control and enjoy a full and healthy life. Regular follow-up appointments with a doctor are also essential for keeping asthma under control and preventing complications.

Suffering from asthma or have questions? Don't hesitate to contact us or appointment to be made with our Pulmonologist Dr. Remels.