India is home to more than 3.43 crore asthmatics. That is a huge burden and accounts for around 13% of the global asthma load. What is more alarming is that urban areas are seeing higher number of new cases, especially among children. Sadly, more than 80% of the asthma cases in India remain either undiagnosed or undertreated. This is due to lack of awareness of symptoms or limited access to high-quality care medical care sometimes due to financial constraints. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and constriction of the airways. It can occur in a variety of ways—from mild coughing spells to life-threatening episodes. Although it can’t be cured, it can definitely be controlled with prompt treatment, appropriate medications, and lifestyle modifications. Reach out to specialists at the best hospital for asthma treatment in India for effective asthma care.
This is a serious health condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life if not well-managed. With increasing pollution, urban stressors, and lifestyle factors, asthma is becoming alarmingly common in India’s metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Asthma is not “just a childhood disease” or “only weather-triggered,” as popularly believed. It’s a multifactorial condition that depends on genetics, environmental exposures, immune mechanisms, and even psychological stress. And although there is no cure, asthma can be controlled well—enabling patients to live full, active lives.
Table of Contents
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a long-term breathing disorder that impacts millions of people all over the globe, including a large population in India’s busy metro towns. It is caused by inflammation and contraction of the bronchial tubes, which are airways that bring and remove air from and to the lungs. These contraction and inflammation prevent air from passing through, resulting in the defining features of asthma, including wheezing, breathlessness, tightness in the chest, and coughing. The pathophysiology of asthma involves three key changes in the airways:
- Inflammation
The airway lining gets swollen and inflamed. The inflammation can be caused by different factors, including allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, and irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes. Inflammation is a normal reaction of the body to such irritants, but in asthma, it becomes persistent and causes a constant constriction of the airways.
- Bronchospasm
The muscles around the airways contract and tighten, further decreasing the airways. This tightening may be acute and severe, usually precipitated by exposure to allergens, exercise, or even weather changes. Bronchospasm can lead to sudden onset of wheezing and shortness of breath, which can be frightening and distressing for patients.
- Overproduction of Mucus
The airways release abnormally large amounts of mucus, which obstruct the already constricted air tubes. This interference in airflow increases the difficulty of breathing. Overproduction of mucus is a protective mechanism of the respiratory system, but in asthma, it is excessive and adds to the severity of the problem.
These mechanisms lead to episodic breathing obstruction that may range from mild to severe. The symptoms may be precipitated by a wide range of factors such as allergens, infections, exercise, and emotional stress. Identification of these precipitating factors and their control is important for the management of asthma symptoms and quality of life.
In the fast-paced and dynamic world of India’s metro cities, where stress levels are high and pollution levels tend to be high as well, asthma management is all the more important. Current and potential patients need to be well-educated about the condition, its triggers, and how it can be best managed. Regular follow-up visits with healthcare providers, compliance with medications, and lifestyle changes can greatly enhance control over asthma and lower the number and severity of asthma attacks. Medical experts emphasize on the importance of early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing education for patients and their families.
Recognizing Asthma Symptoms
Asthma is not a one-size-fits-all disease. It presents itself differently in every individual—some people experience symptoms all the time, while others have them only on exertion, weather changes, or respiratory infections. Accurate detection of early signs of asthma are essential to ensure timely diagnosis and proper control, particularly in a nation like India, where underdiagnosis is a public health issue of serious concern.
The most recognizable asthma symptoms often involve the lungs and airways, but they can also affect sleep and overall energy levels. Some of the key symptoms include:
- Persistent or recurrent coughing – this is seen more often at night or early morning. Many patients mistake this for a lingering cold.
- Wheezing – a high-pitched, whistling sound while breathing, typically when exhaling.
- Shortness of breath – especially during exercise, walking upstairs, or when exposed to allergens.
- Chest tightness or pressure – this may feel like a band squeezing your chest or make it difficult to take deep breaths.
Many of these symptoms can be mild or severe and may come and go. Recognizing when and how they occur—whether triggered by allergens, cold air, pollution, stress or physical activity—can help you and your doctor create an effective asthma action plan.
Early Warning Signs: Don’t Ignore Subtle Changes
Before a full-scale asthma attack, your body often sends warning signals. These early signs may be are subtle yet they are important and must not be missed:
- Unusual fatigue or feeling winded with mild activity
- Coughing after exercise or exposure to allergens
- Increased mucus production or throat clearing
- Waking up at night due to breathlessness or coughing
- Tightness in the chest during or after a cold
Ignoring these crucial asthma related signs can delay essential care. If you notice these symptoms becoming more frequent or intense, it’s time to consult an asthma specialist for further attention.
What Does an Asthma Attack Feel Like?
An asthma attack can occur suddenly and may also escalate quickly becoming life-threatening without timely intervention. During an attack, the airways become severely inflamed, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of a serious attack include:
- Coughing that doesn’t subside
- Severe wheezing or breathlessness
- Bluish lips, face, or fingernails (a sign of low oxygen levels)
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Inability to speak full sentences
- Intense anxiety or a sense of panic
If a rescue inhaler is not bringing much or any relief in minutes, go to the emergency room immediately. Delay can be fatal.
Medical statistics in India, suggest that many young children with asthma go undiagnosed. Instead, they are often treated repeatedly for “bronchitis” or recurrent pneumonia without lasting relief. Here are some warning signs in children to watch out for:
- Frequent coughing, especially at night or after play
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Avoidance of physical activities
- Poor sleep due to cough or breathing difficulty
Early intervention is the key to better care. If your child shows these signs, consult the best asthma doctors in Mumbai or a trusted pediatric pulmonologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan.
It’s important to note that not everyone with asthma wheezes. Some people may only experience:
- Chronic fatigue or frequent sighing
- Difficulty sleeping or unexplained anxiety
- Rapid breathing during stress or exertion
These less typical symptoms often go unrecognized, especially in adults. If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out for medical care at the earliest.
Asthma in Children: Often Missed, Frequently Misdiagnosed
In India, far too many children with asthma are not diagnosed. Rather, they are repeatedly treated for “bronchitis” or recurring pneumonia with no long-term relief. Warning signs in children are:
- Frequent coughing, particularly at night or after activity
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Keeping away from physical activities
- Cough or shortness of breath leading to poor sleep
Early treatment is the key. Do not delay seeking care for asthma for your child. If your child is presenting with these symptoms, consult the top asthma specialists in Mumbai or a known pediatric pulmonologist for proper assessment and customized care plan.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Certain biological and environmental factors increase your risk of developing asthma. Knowing these can help you take preventative action.
Non-Modifiable Risks:
- Family history of asthma
- Atopy (genetic predisposition to allergies)
- Gender (boys more likely in childhood, women more likely in adulthood)
- Premature birth
Modifiable Risks:
- Exposure to cigarette smoke (active or passive)
- Indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mold
- Pollution and smog (especially in metro areas)
- Use of gas stoves and poor ventilation
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Avoiding the modifiable risk factors is the first and essential step toward asthma prevention.
Cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are struggling with deteriorating air quality. Urban air pollution, inadequate ventilation in multi-story apartments, and workplace exposure to chemicals may trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms. Construction dust, car exhaust, smog and ozone exposure, and industrial fumes are some other urban triggers contributing to the risk factors of asthma. It is important to take precautions and wear a mask while stepping in highly polluted areas.
Importance of an Asthma Action Plan
An asthma action plan is well-known among asthmatics. It is one of the most important tools in your care journey and is personalized for you by your specialist. Here are some key aspects of your treatment plan which is elaborated in your asthma action plan:
- Your usual medications and dosages.
- Early warning signs of a flare-up.
- Step-by-step actions during an asthma attack.
- Emergency contact information.
This plan isn’t just designed for you—it empowers your family, caregivers, teachers, or coworkers to respond appropriately during emergencies. Many leading hospitals, including Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital offering asthma treatment in Mumbai, provide printed and digital action plans as part of asthma care. This helps spread awareness about your health condition and keeps the patient in charge of their own health. Regular reviews of this plan with your doctor—especially during seasonal changes—can be of immense help to patients and can greatly reduce sudden health complications.
Common Misconceptions about Asthma
Medical experts dealing in asthma cases have experienced several misconceptions that often delay timely treatment and effective management of asthma. The right information and awareness about a medical condition is essential to manage it appropriately. Here are eight common myths about asthma that need to be addressed:
- Myth 1: Inhalers are addictive
That is not true, inhalers are not addictive. Inhalers are lifesaving devices, particularly when used appropriately under medical guidance. Inhalers administer medication directly into the airways, which gives immediate relief during asthma attack or long-term management when taken as instructed. The apprehension of addiction discourages many patients from using inhalers, which is not good for their health.
- Myth 2: Asthma goes away with age
There is no scientific evidence to prove this information. Although some children see fewer symptoms of asthma as they grow, asthma doesn’t “disappear.” Adults can develop it at an older age, and asthma that goes untreated can get progressively worse. Proper monitoring and treatment are needed to avoid complications and maintain a quality life.
- Myth 3: Exercise should be avoided
In fact, moderate exercise is known to help strengthen your lung health. With precautions in place, a majority of patients with asthma are able to carry out routine workouts—marathon running included. Exercise-induced asthma can be handled using medication and warm-up schedules, and therefore, patients may lead healthy lifestyles.
- Myth 4: Steroids are dangerous
There are different types of steroids available in the market. The inhaled corticosteroids used for asthma are different from the anabolic steroids used by athletes. They act locally in the lungs and are one of the safest long-term management options when prescribed appropriately. These medications reduce inflammation and prevent asthma attacks, significantly improving patients’ respiratory function.
- Myth 5: Asthma is only a childhood disease
Asthma can develop in people of all ages. Although it’s widespread among children, several adults contract asthma much later in life too. Symptoms may be varied, and it is important to detect and treat asthma for all ages in order to avoid severe attacks and complications.
- Myth 6: Asthma medications have severe side effects
That is not true. When taken in recommended doses, asthma medications are safe and effective. Side effects, if at all, will be mild and controllable. The advantages of well-controlled asthma overwhelmingly outweigh medication’s possible dangers. Frequent follow-ups by pulmonologists provide reassurance that treatment is kept optimal and side effects are reduced to a bare minimum.
- Myth 7: Asthma is not a serious illness
Asthma can be a dangerous and life-threatening situation if left untreated. Untreated asthma can cause frequent hospital admissions, worsening of lung function, and impairment in daily functioning. Early detection, compliance with treatment, and continuous monitoring are key to effective control.
- Myth 8: Asthma can be cured
Asthma has no permanent cure as of today. However, this condition can be well controlled by lifestyle changes, health precautions and certain medications. The majority of patients, with an appropriate treatment regimen, can lead healthy, active lives. It becomes easier for patients to adhere to their management when they realize that asthma is a chronic illness.
These misconceptions can prevent patients from seeking timely help or adhering to treatment, leading to frequent attacks and hospitalizations. Highly experienced asthma specialists pay utmost attention on the importance of accurate information and personalized care. Stop believing in these asthma myths which have no scientific proof. Regular consultations with expert healthcare providers, adherence to prescribed medications, and lifestyle modifications are key to managing asthma effectively. Regular medical care and an asthma emergency plan will ensure that asthma patients lead a healthy, active lives.
Essential Ways to Keep Asthma Under Control
- Track Your Symptoms Actively
The most common asthma symptoms – wheezing, coughing (particularly at night), shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest must never be neglected. Patients are advised to maintain a symptom diary or utilize mobile apps to monitor flare-ups.
- Recognize and Avoid Triggers
Dust mites, pollen, household cleaners, perfumes, pollution, tobacco smoke, and even cold air can trigger symptoms. You must work with your pulmonologist and help identify your personal triggers by means of allergy testing.
- Know Your Medications
Consult your doctor to understand your medications in detail and learn how they work. Quick-relief inhalers (bronchodilators) provide instant symptom relief, while controller medications (like inhaled corticosteroids) reduce inflammation. You must use them both at the right time.
- Use a Spacer with Inhalers
Many patients unknowingly waste medicine by not using a spacer, which ensures deeper delivery into the lungs. It’s especially helpful for children and the elderly.
- Get Regular Reviews
Asthma evolves, and so should your treatment plan. A six-month review with a pulmonologist is ideal—even if you’re feeling fine.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While occasional breathlessness may not always indicate asthma, recurring symptoms demand attention. You must seek immediate medical care from an asthma specialist if:
- You use a rescue inhaler more than twice a week
- Night symptoms disrupt your sleep
- You avoid activities due to breathlessness
- You experience flare-ups despite medication
Consult the best asthma doctors in Mumbai, India at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for an accurate diagnosis, lung function tests, and a personalized action plan.
Emergency Signs You Should Never Ignore
Asthma can turn critical quickly. Recognize when your condition requires immediate medical attention:
- No improvement after using a quick-relief inhaler
- Rapid decline in breathing capacity
- Blue lips or nails
- Inability to speak
- Feeling faint or dizzy
In such cases, do not delay seeking emergency care.
Good asthma care goes beyond medication. Here’s how you can complement your treatment plan with healthier habits:
- Sleep Well
Lack of sleep can trigger flare-ups and weaken immunity. You must get at least 7–8 hours of deep sleep each night.
- Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Choose to have leafy greens, turmeric, fatty fish, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and refined sugars.
- Exercise Smart
Start with light walks, swimming, or yoga. Always warm up and carry your reliever inhaler.
- Reduce Stress
Practices like meditation and deep breathing can reduce anxiety-induced flare-ups.
- Track Air Quality
On high-pollution days, avoid outdoor exertion and use indoor air purifiers if possible.
Asthma Treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
Asthma is a lifelong journey—but it doesn’t have to be a limiting one. With the right medical support, a personalized action plan, and a few lifestyle changes, you can breathe easier and live fully. We encourage you to take that first step toward better asthma management. Early intervention saves lives, and quality care makes all the difference. Our Department of Pulmonary Medicine offers comprehensive asthma care in Mumbai with access to the latest therapies and compassionate care. Early detection, environmental awareness, and regular consultations with expert pulmonologists go a long way.
With advancements in asthma care over the years, patients now have access to a wide spectrum of treatment options tailored to individual needs. These include:
- Inhalers and Spacers
The cornerstone of asthma care. From metered dose inhalers to dry powder inhalers, your pulmonologist will help select the right device and technique for you.
- Nebulizers
Often used for children or severe attacks, nebulizers convert medication into a fine mist, making it easier to inhale deeply.
- Biologic Therapy
For patients with severe asthma unresponsive to standard treatments, certain injectable medications are given every few weeks for prompt management and care of severe asthma.
- Oral Medications
Leukotriene modifiers and oral corticosteroids may be used in certain cases, although long-term use of the latter is avoided due to side effects.
- Lifestyle Integration
Alongside medication, our hospital’s integrative approach includes diet counseling, stress management, yoga therapy, and respiratory physiotherapy. These can make a tangible difference in your quality of life.
We offer modern diagnostic tools, evidence-based therapies, and compassionate, long-term care to help manage asthma. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, don’t wait for a crisis. Schedule a check-up today and take control of your respiratory health. Breathe better. Live fuller.
