Asthma in Primary Care (2026 GINA Guidelines)

Vocabulary flashcards defining key asthma terms, pathophysiology, pharmacological treatments, diagnosis criteria, and danger signs according to the 2026 GINA guidelines summary.

Asthma

A long-term inflammatory airway disease marked by persistent airway inflammation, variable respiratory symptoms, and reversible airflow limitation.

Airway Inflammation

A pathophysiological process in asthma characterized by swelling, excess mucus, and the activation of inflammatory cells.

Bronchoconstriction

The narrowing of the airways that causes difficulty breathing and wheezing.

Airway Remodeling

Long-term scarring that occurs in the airways if persistent inflammation goes untreated or poorly controlled.

Asthma Diagnosis Essential Components

A two-part requirement for diagnosis consisting of typical variable symptoms (wheezing, dyspnea, chest tightness, cough) and objective evidence of reversible airflow limitation (spirometry with bronchodilator response or PEF).

Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)

The cornerstone pharmacological treatment for asthma that reduces airway inflammation and prevents exacerbations.

Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABA)

Medications that provide rapid symptom relief only, which are inadequate for long-term asthma control when used without controller therapy.

ICS-Formoterol (MART/SMART)

A combination medication regimen used for both ongoing maintenance and rapid reliever therapy.

Immediate Assessment (ABCD)

An urgent primary care assessment protocol for acute asthma exacerbations evaluating Airway (patent), Breathing effort, Circulation, and Disability (mental state).

Silent Chest

A life-threatening danger sign in an acute asthma attack where the severe airway obstruction prevents enough airflow to produce a wheeze.

Occupational Asthma

Asthma triggered or exacerbated by workplace exposures, classically presenting with symptoms that improve on weekends or holidays.