Breathless No More: Managing Asthma the Right Way

World Asthma Day is observed annually on the first Tuesday of May to raise awareness about asthma and improve care for those affected by this chronic respiratory condition. In 2025,The theme for World Asthma Day 2025 is “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL”.

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Asthma is one of the most common respiratory conditions in India, yet it's often misunderstood or underdiagnosed. Many people live with chronic symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath—without realising they could have asthma.

"Asthma is not just a seasonal allergy—it’s a chronic condition that requires consistent management, not just temporary relief,” says Dr. Chandrakant Tarke, Senior Pulmonologist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad.

Asthma occurs when the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe. Common triggers include dust, pollution, weather changes, exercise, infections, and even emotional stress. In urban areas like Hyderabad, poor air quality has worsened asthma symptoms across all age groups. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and breathlessness, especially at night or early in the morning.

Timely Diagnosis Can Change Lives