Asthma: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment

Asthma is one of the several disorders that affect the lungs and their functions. There are three types of asthma, namely, exercise-induced asthma, asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS) and occupational asthma. Some of its common symptoms are shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, trouble in sleeping due to short breath, and wheezing or coughing. Certain factors like allergies, environmental factors, genetics and respiratory infections present a higher risk of asthma. Spirometry is a common diagnostic method used to measure airflow through lungs. Other diagnostic methods for this medical condition include a chest X-ray, skin test or blood test. Treatment of asthma consists of bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory medicines and biologic therapies. Bronchodilators are medications that relax the muscles around airways to relieve the symptoms. Meter-dosed inhaler or nebulizer can also be used for the administration of the medicine. The topics included in this book on the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of asthma are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post graduate students.