Asthma in Adults

Asthma affects approximately 300 million people worldwide and approximately 7.5% of adults in the United States. Asthma is characterized by inflammation of the airways, variable airflow obstruction, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The diagnosis of asthma is a clinical one with the history and physical examination being significant, but objective measures, such as pulmonary function testing , can be used to aid in the diagnosis. There are multiple associated comorbidities with asthma, including rhinitis , sinusitis , gastroesophageal reflux disease , obstructive sleep apnea , and depression. There is often an allergic component of asthma, and patient education is vital.