Dr Sermed Mezher
GP and Online Educator
A quick breath test, which checks for inflammation in the airways, is a positive step for asthma diagnosis — while also helping to prevent flare-ups for those already on medication.
Winter can be a difficult season for asthma sufferers, with triggers of flare-ups including cold, dry air, plus cold and flu viruses. Typical symptoms include breathlessness, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness.
Difficult nature of asthma diagnosis
Traditionally, asthma diagnosis has been made on symptoms and lung function tests. However, accessibility to these test centres can be really reduced, so patients may face delays in getting treatment. Additionally, symptoms alone can make asthma difficult to diagnose and treat, as they can vary over time and in intensity.1
Meanwhile, people who already have asthma might feel fine and believe they’re managing it, whether they’re taking their regular medication or not. They might not realise that inflammation is building in their airways, which can make asthma symptoms worse over time.2
FeNO testing measures inflammation in the airways, helping doctors diagnose asthma and get patients onto the right treatment sooner.1
Checking for inflammation in asthma
However, a quick and simple breath test called a FeNO test is available at GP practices and clinics across the country and has been called a “game-changer” for asthma care. 3 It can help to manage asthma better, lower the risk of asthma attacks or hospital visits, and improve quality of life.1,4
FeNO testing measures inflammation in the airways, helping doctors diagnose asthma and get patients onto the right treatment sooner.1 For patients with asthma, it can offer reassurance that treatment is working, reinforce taking medication or show if a different management approach is needed.1 It’s simple — a gentle 10-second breath is all that’s required, so it’s suitable for children and results are immediate.1
“If you suspect you have asthma — or even have asthma — then talk to your doctor about FeNO testing,” says Dr Sermed Mezher, GP and Online Educator. “It might help in the management of your asthma, or potentially in figuring out what the likelihood is that (asthma is) the explanation for your symptoms.”
