The diagnosis of bronchial asthma requires a comprehensive approach, including medical history taking, physical examination, and pulmonary function testing. Treatment includes medication control, environmental management, and lifestyle modifications.
1. Taking a medical history is a crucial step in diagnosing bronchial asthma. The doctor will ask the patient in detail about their symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness, as well as the frequency of symptom attacks, triggers, and methods of relief. Family history and personal allergy history are also important references.
2. Physical examination includes auscultation of the lungs for wheezing, observation of respiratory rate and chest morphology. These examinations help to make a preliminary assessment of whether airway obstruction is present.
3. Pulmonary function tests are crucial for diagnosing bronchial asthma. Commonly used tests include vital capacity measurement, peak expiratory flow measurement, and bronchial provocation test. These tests can assess the degree and reversibility of airway obstruction.
4. Imaging examinations such as chest X-rays or CT scans are mainly used to rule out other lung diseases, such as pneumonia or emphysema.
5. Allergen testing can help identify specific allergens that trigger asthma, such as dust mites, pollen, or pet dander. Skin prick tests or serum-specific IgE tests can provide a basis for personalized treatment.
Treatment of bronchial asthma requires long-term management. Drug therapy includes inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-2 agonists, and leukotriene modifiers to control inflammation and relieve symptoms. Environmental management includes avoiding allergens, maintaining clean indoor air, and using air purifiers. Lifestyle modifications include quitting smoking, engaging in moderate exercise, and maintaining a positive mental state. Regular follow-up and monitoring of lung function are crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of treatment.
The diagnosis and treatment of bronchial asthma requires a combination of methods. Patients should actively cooperate with doctors for standardized management in order to control symptoms and improve their quality of life.