Asthma: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is an inflammatory disease of the airways that causes bronchospasm and leads to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing.
Dr Alexis Politis’ office in Kavala applies the most modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods to control asthma and improve the quality of life of patients.
What is asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bronchi, characterized by:
- Inflammation of the airways
- Hyperreactivity to allergens or environmental factors
- Periodic obstruction of the airflow, which may be reversible
Symptoms of asthma
Symptoms may occur occasionally or be permanent, depending on the severity of the disease:
- Continuous or intermittent cough (often worse at night)
- Dyspnea or shortness of breath
- Wheezing (whistling)
- Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the chest
- Asthma attacks that can lead to breathing difficulty
👉 In severe cases, asthma can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
Causes and risk factors
Asthma is the result of an interaction of genetic and environmental factors. The main ones are:
- Allergies: allergic rhinitis, exposure to pollen, mites, animal dander.
- Smoking and passive smoking.
- Air pollution and irritants (chemicals, dust, exhaust fumes).
- Obesity, which is associated with an increased risk of asthma.
- Viral respiratory infections.
- Hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy, menopause).
- Heredity – increased likelihood of occurrence when there are other members in the family with asthma.
Factors that trigger attacks asthma
- Allergens (dust, pollen, mold, animal dander)
- Air pollution or smoking
- Intense physical exercise (exertional asthma)
- Respiratory infections
- Cold or very humid climate
- Stress and intense emotional stress
- Certain medications (aspirin, beta-blockers)
Asthma diagnosis
Diagnosis requires:
- Clinical assessment and detailed history.
- Spirometry to measure respiratory function.
- Provocation tests to assess bronchial hyperreactivity.
- Allergy tests to identify allergens.
Therapeutic treatment
The goal of treatment is to control the disease and prevent attacks. The main strategies are:
- Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS): first choice for controlling inflammation.
- Bronchodilators (SABA, LABA, LAMA): relieve symptoms and help maintain open airways.
- Antileukotrienes (montelukast): for additional control in specific cases.
- Biological therapies: specialized drugs for severe asthma that is not controlled with classic regimens.
- Patient education: information on avoiding triggers and proper use of inhaled medications.
Prevention and daily management
- Smoking cessation
- Vaccination for flu and pneumococcus
- Weight control
- Protection from respiratory infections
- Regular follow-up by a pulmonologist
The role of the Pulmonologist in Kavala
Dr Alexis Politis, with many years of experience in treating asthma, offers personalized treatment plans aimed at full daily functionality and reducing attacks.
📌 Book your appointment today
Asthma can be effectively controlled so that it does not limit your life. Contact Dr Alexis Politis for a complete diagnosis and therapeutic guidance.
📍 Mitropolitou Chrysostomou 6, K
