Variant asthma can be diagnosed through medical history taking, lung function testing, and allergen testing. Treatment includes medication control, environmental management, and lifestyle modifications.
1. Taking a medical history is the first step in diagnosing variant asthma. The doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, frequency of attacks, triggering factors, and family history of allergies. Patients usually present with cough, wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing. Symptoms may worsen at night or in the early morning, and may be triggered by cold air, allergens, or exercise.
2. Pulmonary function tests are an important method for diagnosis, including peak expiratory flow (PEF) testing and bronchial provocation testing. PEF testing is used to assess the degree of airway obstruction, while bronchial provocation testing observes airway responsiveness by inhaling a specific substance.
3. Allergen testing helps identify triggering factors. Common methods include skin prick tests and serum IgE tests. Through testing, doctors can identify a patient's allergens, such as dust mites, pollen, or animal dander, thereby guiding prevention and treatment.
4. In terms of treatment, medication is key. Commonly used medications include inhaled corticosteroids such as budesonide, long-acting β2 receptor agonists such as salmeterol, and leukotriene receptor antagonists such as montelukast. These medications can effectively reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
5. Environmental management is crucial for controlling the condition. Patients should avoid contact with known allergens, maintain good indoor air circulation, use air purifiers, and regularly clean bedding and carpets.
6. Lifestyle modifications can help reduce attacks. Patients are advised to quit smoking, avoid strenuous exercise, and engage in moderate aerobic exercise, such as swimming or walking, to improve physical fitness and lung function.
Diagnosis and treatment of variant asthma require a combination of methods, including medical history taking, pulmonary function testing, allergen testing, medication control, environmental management, and lifestyle modifications. Patients should actively cooperate with doctors for long-term management.