【Common Diseases】Asthma

[Editor's In-Depth Analysis] A Complete Guide to Asthma Treatment and Management in Hong Kong

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract that causes the airways to become overly sensitive to certain stimuli (airway hyperresponsiveness), leading to airway constriction, swelling, increased secretions, and obstruction of air flow.
According to the Hong Kong Department of Health, approximately 5-10% of adults and 8-10% of children in Hong Kong have been diagnosed with asthma. Patients are prone to acute attacks when the weather changes, they are exposed to allergens or are infected with respiratory diseases.

Common asthma symptoms in Hong Kong

  • Wheezing (a "wheezing" sound heard when breathing)
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Persistent cough (especially at night or early morning)
  • Symptoms are often intermittent and may resolve on their own or improve with medication.

Editor's reminder:

Asthma is more than just “allergies” or “occasional shortness of breath.” Long-term poor control can damage lung function and even be life-threatening.

Asthma treatment goals

  1. Long-term symptom control and reduction of daytime and nighttime attacks
  2. Preventing acute exacerbations
  3. Maintain normal life and exercise ability
  4. Reduce drug side effects
  5. Avoiding hospital or emergency room visits due to asthma

1. Long-term control medication (Controller)

The purpose is to reduce airway inflammation and avoid frequent attacks, and it needs to be used regularly every day , even if there are no symptoms.

Common types (Hong Kong medication reference):

  • Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)
    Examples: Budesonide (Pulmicort Respules), Fluticasone
    ➤ Suppressing airway inflammation is the cornerstone of asthma treatment.

  • Long-acting alpha-2 receptor agonists (LABAs)
    Examples: Formoterol, Salmeterol
    ➤ Often used in combination with ICS to help maintain airway dilation for a longer period of time.

  • Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs)
    Example: Montelukast (Singulair)
    ➤ Oral medication is suitable for some patients as auxiliary control.

  • Biologics
    Example: Omalizumab (injection, for allergic asthma)
    ➤ Suitable for patients with severe disease and poor response to conventional drugs.

Let me tell you:

Many Hong Kong patients stop taking steroids out of fear of harm. However, inhaled steroids have a lower dose, more localized effect, and a much lower risk of side effects than oral or injected steroids. Proper use can actually protect lung function.

2. Reliever

It rapidly expands the airways and relieves symptoms during an acute asthma attack.

Common types:

  • Short-acting alpha-2-receptor agonists (SABAs)
    Example: Salbutamol (Ventolin) inhaler ➤ Acts quickly (within minutes) and lasts 4-6 hours.

⚠️ Note:

  • If frequent use is required (>2 times a week), it may mean that the disease is not under control and you need to review long-term control medication with your doctor.
  • Rescue medications should not replace long-term control medications.

3. Non-drug management

  • Avoid allergens : such as dust mites, pollen, animal dander, and mold.
  • Avoid irritants : tobacco smoke, air pollution, strong odors.
  • Prevent respiratory infections : Get an influenza vaccine every year, and consider pneumococcal vaccine for high-risk patients.
  • Monitor lung function regularly : Use a peak expiratory flow meter (PEF meter) to track your condition.

Editor's suggestion:

In Hong Kong, humid weather and air pollution can trigger asthma. When going out, pay attention to the Environmental Protection Department's Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and try to reduce strenuous outdoor exercise on high-risk days.

Management of acute asthma attacks (Hong Kong medical advice)

  1. Immediately use a rescue inhaler (such as Salbutamol), 2-4 doses at a time, depending on your doctor's instructions.
  2. Sit up straight and stay calm.
  3. If symptoms do not improve after 15-20 minutes or worsen, seek medical attention immediately or call 999.
  4. People with a history of severe asthma attacks should carry an Asthma Action Plan with them.

Medical resources in Hong Kong

  • Respiratory Department/Accident and Emergency Department of Public Hospitals : handles severe attacks or cases requiring hospitalization.
  • General outpatient clinic/private clinic : routine follow-up, medication adjustment.
  • Hong Kong Asthma Society : provides patient education, support groups, and the latest treatment information.

Tips for daily life for asthma patients

  • Correct inhalation technique : You can learn the correct method from your pharmacist before using inhalers.
  • Regular follow-up : Even if your symptoms are stable, you should still have your doctor check your lung function and adjust your medication dosage.
  • Preventive medication before exercise : People with a history of exercise-induced asthma can take medication before exercise as directed by their doctor.
  • Keep your home clean : wash your bedding regularly and use dust mite-proof mattress covers.
  • Mental health management : Stress can aggravate asthma, so relax and reduce stress appropriately.

💡Editor 's Summary <br>Asthma is a chronic disease that is controllable but not completely curable. The key lies in regular, long-term medication, avoiding triggers, and regular monitoring . In Hong Kong, comprehensive treatment options are available across both the public and private sectors. Most importantly, patients must proactively collaborate with their doctors to develop a personalized control plan to minimize acute attacks and enjoy a normal life.

Disclaimer : This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles.

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