Is bronchial asthma airflow limitation reversible?

Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
Updated on March 11, 2025
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The airflow limitation in bronchial asthma is completely reversible, which is related to the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the occurrence of bronchial asthma. Bronchial asthma is a chronic airway inflammation involving multiple inflammatory cells. When this airway inflammation occurs, there can be edema of the airway mucosa as well as spasm and contraction of the smooth muscles outside the bronchi. However, this inflammation and smooth muscle spasm are reversible through medication or spontaneous improvement. Thus, many patients with mild asthma can achieve symptom relief without medication. In the case of some severe patients, even though the airflow is restricted, it can be reversed with the use of medications, and generally, the recovery is very quick.

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Written by An Yong Peng
Pulmonology
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Can bronchial asthma cure itself?

Bronchial asthma generally cannot heal on its own. Bronchial asthma is a chronic, recurrent disease, which is usually incurable. Even with standard treatment, a complete cure is often unachievable. However, during an acute attack of bronchial asthma, spontaneous remission is possible. Some mild acute attacks of bronchial asthma may simply require removing the allergen and hazardous factors, which can lead to spontaneous alleviation of the asthma symptoms. For bronchial asthma, long-term standard treatment is usually required, such as the inhalation of corticosteroids and the use of bronchodilators. Additionally, it is important to avoid allergens and prevent respiratory infections.

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Written by Zeng Xiang Bo
Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
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What foods should not be eaten with bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a type of chronic, variable inflammation, which is also an allergic inflammation. In clinical cases of bronchial asthma, the majority are allergic asthma. If there is an allergy, allergens exist, therefore, it is crucial for asthma patients to strictly avoid contact with allergens. If it is food allergy, contact with the allergenic food must be strictly prohibited. Additionally, many patients do not know what they are allergic to, so they need to be cautious of common foods that can cause allergies, such as seafood, small fish, and small shrimp. For instance, if people around them or family members experience discomfort or develop a rash after consuming certain medications or foods, or if they experience chest tightness or abdominal pain after eating, such foods should be avoided as much as possible.

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Written by Han Shun Li
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Clinical symptoms of bronchial asthma

The incidence of bronchial asthma is increasing year by year and is attracting more and more attention. What are the clinical symptoms of bronchial asthma? The typical symptoms of bronchial asthma are episodic dyspnea, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, etc., and a typical asthma attack often comes with wheezing sounds. Some patients have atypical symptoms, which may primarily present as just one symptom, such as cough or chest tightness alone, known as atypical asthma. However, whether it is typical or atypical asthma, the principles of treatment are the same. It is essential to cooperate with the doctor to control the disease, improve symptoms, and enhance the quality of life.

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Written by Wang Li Bing
Intensive Care Medicine Department
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What causes bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is very common in clinical settings, mainly characterized by a reversible airflow limitation that can cause recurrent attacks of wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath in patients. These attacks generally occur at night or in the early morning and can gradually ease after treatment. Bronchial asthma is mainly related to several factors, the first being environmental factors. Exposure to pollen and animal dander can trigger asthma attacks. Additionally, infections, diet, and medications are among the various factors that can provoke asthma attacks.

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Written by Yuan Qing
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How to check for bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease. Patients primarily exhibit symptoms of episodic wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, which usually can be relieved with or without medication. Typically, during an attack, there is wheezing and audible stridor. A diagnosis can usually be made based on symptoms and medical history, as well as physical examination. However, for atypical patients, further tests may be necessary. Generally, the main tests for asthma patients are pulmonary function tests, which include provocation tests and relaxation tests, as well as the 24-hour peak expiratory flow variability. These tests are helpful for the definitive diagnosis of bronchial asthma.