Breathe easier with an accurate asthma diagnosis and expert care at Apex Hospitals. Our pulmonology specialists use advanced lung function tests, imaging, and personalised treatment strategies to help you control symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and improve your quality of life.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes ongoing inflammation in the airways, making them sensitive to certain triggers such as pollen, dust, exercise, or cold air. When exposed to these triggers, the airways may swell, narrow (a condition known as bronchospasm), and produce excess mucus. This can lead to symptoms like difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. In severe cases, untreated asthma flare-ups can be life-threatening.
According to the Global Burden of Disease Report, an estimated 34.3 million people in India live with asthma. The condition can appear in childhood or develop later in adulthood, and is sometimes referred to as bronchial asthma. For some individuals, asthma causes occasional discomfort, while for others, it can severely disrupt daily life and increase the risk of serious asthma attacks.
Although asthma has no permanent cure, its symptoms can be effectively managed. Because the condition may change over time, regular monitoring and working closely with your doctor are essential. Timely treatment and avoiding known triggers can help keep asthma under control and improve quality of life.
Types of asthma:
- Allergic Asthma Triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or Mold. Common in people with a history of allergies or hay fever.
- Non-Allergic Asthma Brought on by factors other than allergens, like stress, exercise, infections, smoke, or cold air.
- Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) Symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath occur during or after physical activity.
- Occupational Asthma Develops due to workplace exposure to irritants such as chemicals, dust, gases, or industrial fumes.
- Cough-Variant Asthma The main symptom is a persistent dry cough, without the classic wheezing or shortness of breath.
- Childhood Asthma Asthma that starts in childhood. Some children outgrow it, while others continue to have symptoms into adulthood.
- Adult-Onset Asthma Develops after the age of 20, often triggered by allergies, hormonal changes, or workplace exposures.
Symptoms and Common Triggers
Common Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (whistling sound while breathing)
- Persistent coughing (especially at night or early morning)
- Chest tightness or pressure
- Fatigue during physical activity
Common Triggers
- Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, Mold, pet dander
- Irritants: Smoke, pollution, strong odours, chemical fumes
- Weather: Cold air, sudden temperature changes
- Activity: Exercise, especially in cold or dry environments
- Infections: Flu, cold, or other respiratory illnesses
- Stress and strong emotions
Why Choose Apex Hospitals for Asthma Care?
- NABH-accredited diagnostic facilities for accurate results
- Experienced pulmonologists & respiratory therapists
- State-of-the-art lung function testing (Spirometry, Peak Flow, FeNO)
- Same-day diagnosis & treatment initiation
- Affordable care with insurance acceptance
- 24x7 emergency support for acute asthma attacks
- Holistic approach including trigger management & patient education
Who Should Get Tested for Asthma?
- Frequent coughing or wheezing
- Shortness of breath, especially at night or after exercise
- Chest tightness
- Persistent cough after a cold
- Family history of asthma or allergies
What to Expect During Asthma Testing
- No fasting needed
- Detailed medical history & symptom assessment
- Lung function test (spirometry) – measures airflow and breathing capacity
- Allergy testing – identifies potential triggers
- Chest X-ray or FeNO test – evaluates lung health
- Duration: Usually 30–45 minutes
- No pain or invasive procedures
Benefits of Early Asthma Diagnosis & Treatment
- Prevents severe asthma attacks
- Helps identify and avoid triggers
- Improves lung function and daily activity
- Reduces need for emergency hospital visits
- Enables personalised, long-term management
Doctor’s Insight
"Asthma symptoms often develop gradually, so many patients delay seeking help. Early lung function testing can detect airway problems before they become severe." – Dr. Mehul Agarwal, Consultant - Pulmonology, Apex Hospitals.
"Don’t ignore breathing problems – book your asthma test at Apex Hospitals today. Early control means better living."
