What you really need to know about asthma
Dr. med. Thomas Stangl
November 7, 2025
Asthma is a widespread chronic disease that can severely affect many people in their everyday lives. We answer the most important questions to help you better understand what asthma means, how it develops and how you can live well with it.
What actually happens in my airways with asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease in which the bronchial tubes, i.e. the airways in the lungs, repeatedly constrict. This is because the mucous membranes are inflamed and irritated, which leads to hypersensitivity. As a result, the muscles around the bronchial tubes can contract, the mucous membranes swell and more mucus is produced. This makes breathing difficult and causes typical symptoms such as breathlessness, coughing or wheezing.
What triggers should I be aware of and how can I avoid them?
Asthma is often triggered by certain factors that irritate the bronchial tubes. These include
- Allergens such as pollen, house dust mites or animal hair
- Infections of the airways (e.g. colds)
- Environmental stimuli such as cold air, smoke or air pollution
- Physical exertion or stress
It is important to recognise and avoid these triggers as much as possible. Together with your doctor, you can identify your individual triggers and develop strategies to prevent asthma attacks.
How do I recognise whether I have asthma?
Asthma manifests itself through typical symptoms that can vary in their severity and frequency. If you suspect you have asthma, you should pay particular attention to the following signs:
- Shortness of breath: sudden or recurring phases in which breathing is difficult, especially on exertion, at night or in the early hours of the morning.
- Cough: Frequent coughing, especially at night or during exercise, which lasts longer than a common cold.
- Whistling or squeaking noises when breathing (wheezing): these are caused by the constriction of the bronchial tubes.
- Tightness in the chest: an unpleasant feeling of pressure or tightness that often occurs together with breathlessness.
These symptoms can occur individually or together and are sometimes only temporary. It is particularly important to consult a doctor if they recur or worsen.
When should a doctor be consulted?
- If you have breathing difficulties or a cough more than twice a week.
- If the symptoms restrict your everyday life, sleep or physical activities.
- If you experience little or no relief from your current treatment.
- If you suddenly experience severe breathlessness that is not relieved by your emergency medication.
Your doctor will use these symptoms, a physical examination and special lung function tests to determine whether asthma is present or whether other causes are possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent secondary damage and maintain your quality of life.
Can asthma develop suddenly or do I have to have it from birth?
Asthma is not necessarily congenital, but can develop at any age. Some people show the first symptoms in childhood, especially if there is a family tendency to allergies or asthma. However, there are also many cases in which asthma only occurs in adulthood - this is known as "adult-onset asthma" or "late-onset asthma". Various factors such as environmental stimuli, infections or occupational stress can cause asthma to develop suddenly, even if you had no symptoms beforehand.
What is the best treatment for asthma?
Although asthma cannot be cured, it can be well controlled with the right treatment. The therapy consists of two pillars:
Anti-inflammatory medication (usually inhaled corticosteroids), which reduce the inflammation in the airways in the long term.
On-demand medication (bronchodilators), which quickly relieves acute symptoms by widening the constricted airways.
In addition to drug treatment, it is important to attend regular check-ups to monitor the course of the disease and adjust the therapy if necessary.
In addition to drug treatment, it is important to attend regular check-ups to monitor the progress of the disease and adjust the therapy if necessary.
How do I recognise whether my asthma is well controlled?
Well-controlled asthma is characterised by rare symptoms and little or no restrictions in everyday life. You can go about your everyday life normally, do sport and sleep well without being disturbed by coughing or breathlessness. However, if you have frequent symptoms or need your medication often, you should speak to your doctor - your treatment may need to be adjusted.
How do I recognise whether my asthma is well controlled?
Well-controlled asthma is characterised by rare symptoms and little or no restrictions in everyday life. You can go about your everyday life normally, do sport and sleep well without being disturbed by coughing or breathlessness. However, if you have frequent symptoms or need your medication often, you should speak to your doctor - your treatment may need to be adjusted.
Your path to better breathing
We accompany you
Asthma can make life challenging, but it doesn't have to take over your quality of life. With the right treatment, a conscious approach to triggers and regular care from your GP practice, you can protect your airways and lead an active, fulfilling life. Don't hesitate to contact us at an early stage if you have any questions or complaints. Together we will find the best solution for your health - because good airways are the basis for well-being and enjoyment of life. We look forward to supporting you at our practice in the Hottingen Health Centre!
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