Asthma

Dr. Francisco Recio Valcarce

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease that chronically affects the airways. The most common symptoms are cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness… which can occur acutely, commonly known as a bronchospasm, or in other everyday situations such as exercise, crying, laughter, play…

Affecting nearly 300 million people worldwide, it causes around 500,000 deaths each year and leads to significant healthcare expenses. That’s why an early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the potentially fatal consequences it can have.

The diagnosis is made by collecting a specific medical history and performing a spirometry test with a positive bronchodilator response, meaning an improvement in respiratory results after administering a bronchodilator medication (usually salbutamol).

Fortunately, despite being a chronic disease, there are inhaled treatments called controllers or preventers that can make virtually all symptoms disappear. It is important to remember not to neglect rescue inhalers, as a crisis can occur at any time, even when taking preventive medication. Training and reassessment of inhalation technique are essential to avoid medication errors and ensure proper compliance.

Francisco Recio, pediatrician at Equipo Médico Ordovás with training in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy, reminds us of the importance of accurate diagnosis and management of this disease. If you have any doubts about whether your child may have asthma or any respiratory condition, do not hesitate to consult our specialist.