Abstract

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON ASTHMA

M. Mahesh Yadav*, M. Nagendra and B. Jaya Lakshmi

ABSTRACT

Asthma affects about 7.5% of the adult population. It is an obstructive lung disease affecting >230 million people worldwide and a significant cause of morbidity in patients of all ages. It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that cause hyper responsiveness to various stimuli resulting in airway obstruction leading to symptoms like wheezing, cough, chest tightness and dyspnea. Some of genetic factors and environmental factors are responsible for asthma. However, control can be achieved through the use of avoidance measures and appropriate pharmacological interventions. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) represent the standard of Care for the majority of patients. Combination ICSL/long acting beta2-agonist inhalers are preferred for most adults who fail to achieve control with ICS therapy. Other controller medications, such as long acting bronchodilators and biologics, may be required in moderate and severe asthma. Patients with severe asthma generally benefit from consultation with an asthma specialist for consideration of additional treatment, including injectable biological agents. This article provides a review of current literature and guidelines for the appropriate management of asthma in adults and children.

Keywords: Obstructive lung disease, Asthma, Hyper responsiveness.