Asthma: Understanding Your Lungs to Breathe Better

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bronchi. Under the effect of various triggers, the airways narrow (bronchospasm), swell, and produce excess mucus, making breathing difficult. health authorities estimates that 262 million people are affected and that 455,000 deaths per year are attributable to it.

Common triggers

Allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander), air pollution, tobacco smoke, cold air, physical exercise, respiratory infections, and emotional stress. Identifying one's own triggers is a key step in management.

Maintenance and rescue treatment

Maintenance treatment is based on inhaled corticosteroids (fluticasone, budesonide) that reduce bronchial inflammation. Short-acting bronchodilators (salbutamol) relieve attacks. Biologics (omalizumab, dupilumab) are reserved for severe, uncontrolled asthma.

Living with asthma

Well-controlled asthma allows for a perfectly normal life, including sports. Therapeutic education, proper inhalation technique, and a personalized action plan in case of an attack are essential. The peak-flow (peak expiratory flow) helps monitor the condition of the bronchi daily.