Immunology

RSV vaccines could offer protection against asthma

Belgian scientists from VIB and Ghent University (UGent), together with Danish collaborators, have uncovered compelling evidence that early-infancy infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) significantly increases ...

Inflammatory disorders

Hoping to enjoy your holidays? Avoid the sneeze and wheeze triggers

As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and other winter holidays, millions will also have to navigate increased exposure to allergy and asthma triggers. From festive decorations to candle lightings ...

Inflammatory disorders

Sleep issues linked to higher risk of severe asthma in children

About 30 to 40% of children with asthma experience sleep difficulties due to symptoms like coughing and wheezing. Poor sleep increases the risk of severe asthma exacerbations (attacks) that often necessitate a hospitalization ...

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Asthma (from the Greek άσθμα, ásthma, "panting") is the common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, reversible airflow obstruction, and bronchospasm. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma is clinically classified according to the frequency of symptoms, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow rate. Asthma may also be classified as atopic (extrinsic) or non-atopic (intrinsic).

It is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment of acute symptoms is usually with an inhaled short-acting beta-2 agonist (such as salbutamol). Symptoms can be prevented by avoiding triggers, such as allergens and irritants, and by inhaling corticosteroids. Leukotriene antagonists are less effective than corticosteroids and thus less preferred.

Its diagnosis is usually made based on the pattern of symptoms and/or response to therapy over time. The prevalence of asthma has increased significantly since the 1970s. As of 2010, 300 million people were affected worldwide. In 2009 asthma caused 250,000 deaths globally. Despite this, with proper control of asthma with step down therapy, prognosis is generally good.

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