Asthma and Lung Function: When Symptom Control Isn’t Enough

Asthma Management: When Controlling Symptoms Is No Longer Enough

Asthma doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Some people experience occasional attacks, while others live with constant breathing limitations.

Problems arise when:

  • Wheezing and/or shortness of breath continues despite using an inhaler regularly

  • Asthma attacks still occur requiring oral steroids

  • Cough persists 

  • Lung function gradually declines

Asthma changes over time

Chronic inflammation can alter lung function, even when symptoms seem controlled. Over time, lungs may:

  • Stop working properly causing persistent shortness of breath, lung tissue can get scarred over and become tough,

  • Oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange will become less efficient

  • May require use of external oxygen

That’s why symptom control alone is not always enough.

Understanding how your lungs function today

The Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) allows physicians to evaluate how air moves and distributes inside the lungs during breathing.

This functional insight helps:

  • Adjust asthma treatment precisely

  • Prevent future exacerbations

  • Identify early lung deterioration

Benefits for people living with asthma

  • Improved disease control

  • Fewer unexpected attacks

  • Better exercise tolerance

  • Greater confidence in daily life

The real goal of asthma care

Not just avoiding attacks—but breathing freely, safely, and without constant worry.


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Lung Cancer and Breathing: Why Pulmonary Function Matters

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Smoking and Lung Damage: Early Detection & Pulmonary Testing