Options for managing asthma triggered by viral infections
In the world of respiratory health, asthma continues to be a significant concern. One form of asthma that requires particular attention is viral asthma, triggered by various viruses.
Viral asthma is often instigated by common culprits such as the rhinovirus, responsible for the common cold, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a well-recognised cause of viral-induced asthma exacerbations, particularly in children [1][3]. Additionally, coronaviruses, including those that cause the common cold, have been linked to triggering asthma attacks [4].
These viruses infect the respiratory tract and induce airway inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms or exacerbations [1][3][4][5]. The inflammation can cause an increase in mucus production, airway smooth muscle contraction, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness, contributing to airway obstruction and asthma symptoms [1].
To manage viral asthma, a combination of quick-relief and long-term control medications is typically prescribed. Quick-relief medications, such as short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists (SABA inhalers) and anticholinergics, provide immediate relief from symptoms, but do not control the cause of asthma, which is airway inflammation [2]. Long-term control medications, including inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), work to reduce inflammation over time, thereby improving symptoms [6].
Common examples of LABA medications include salmeterol, formoterol, and vilanterol, while inhaled corticosteroids include fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone, beclomethasone, and ciclesonide [6]. Anti-leukotrienes or leukotriene modifiers, such as montelukast sodium, zafirlukast, and zileuton, may also be prescribed for long-term control [6].
Preventing asthmatic exacerbations is crucial, and doctors must identify a patient's risk factors. Individuals can help by practicing good hygiene, avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth, getting a flu vaccine, asking a doctor about getting the pneumococcal vaccine, avoiding contact with sick individuals, keeping breathing equipment clean, and not sharing them with others [7].
In severe cases of asthma that do not respond to maximum medical treatment, thermoplasty, a nonpharmacological treatment, may be considered [5]. In some instances, doctors may prescribe biologics, such as omalizumab, to help control asthma symptoms and reduce the number of exacerbations [8].
It is essential for people with asthma to take their medications daily, even if they do not have symptoms, as they help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms [9]. A person may experience reduced airflow and a gradual increase in symptoms 7-10 days before an asthma exacerbation, making regular medication use crucial in preventing such events [9].
References:
[1] Gupta, A., et al. (2015). Rhinovirus infection in asthma. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 136(4), 916-928.
[2] Global Initiative for Asthma. (2020). Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention 2020 Report. Retrieved from https://www.ginasthma.org/
[3] Hsu, L. Y., et al. (2012). Respiratory syncytial virus and asthma. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 130(3), 558-567.
[4] Lai, C. K., et al. (2011). Viral triggers of asthma exacerbations. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 127(3), 483-491.
[5] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Asthma: Overview. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma
[6] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Asthma: Medications. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma/treatment
[7] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Asthma: Prevention & Control. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma/prevention-and-control
[8] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Asthma: Biologic Therapies. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma/treatment/biologics
[9] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Asthma: Symptoms & Diagnosis. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma/symptoms-and-diagnosis
- Seekers of medical-conditions solutions should be aware that viral asthma, a respiratory-condition, is significantly concerned in the world of health-and-wellness.
- Viral asthma can be triggered by various viruses, such as rhinovirus, responsible for the common cold, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a well-known cause of asthma exacerbations.
- Science continues to study the eosinophilic dynamics in viral asthma instigated by viruses like coronaviruses, which have been linked to asthma attacks.
- Treatment for viral asthma often includes a combination of quick-relief and long-term control medications, such as SABA inhalers, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), and inhaled corticosteroids.
- In some cases, switchers may be prescribed biologics, such as omalizumab, to manage asthma symptoms and reduce exacerbations.
- Preventing asthma exacerbations is crucial; individuals should practice good hygiene, avoid contact with sick people, and get recommended vaccines to minimize risk.
- Fitness-and-exercise, mental-health maintenance, and proper skin-care are essential components of overall wellness for persons with asthma, alongside a regular treatment routine.
- Proper nutrition plays a vital role in managing asthma symptoms, as daily medication use and a balanced diet help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
