Asthma signs and symptoms
Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the pathway that is characterized by variable and recurrent symptoms, reversible respiratory obstruction and bronchospasm. Common symptoms include wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and respiratory problems. Asthma is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The diagnosis is usually based on the pattern of symptoms, response to treatment over time, and spirometry. It is clinically classified based on frequency of symptoms, forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate in one second. The disease is also classified as atopic (external) or non-atopic (inner) where Atopy has been referred to as pre-adapted to the development of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions. Severe symptoms are usually treated with an inhaled short-acting beta-2 agonist (such as salbutamol) and oral corticosteroids. Intravenous corticosteroids, magnesium sulfate, and hospitalization may be necessary in each severe case. Symp...