The History of Asthma
Modern doctors first identified asthma as a distinct disease in the 1800s. Since then, much has changed in our understanding of the causes of and treatments for asthma. Treatment strategies have shifted from simply dealing with symptoms when they occur to long-term management of the disease. At the same time, the number of people with asthma has increased. Experts estimate that the number of people with asthma will grow to more than 100 million by 2025.
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Causes
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In the second half of the 20th century, doctors recognized that asthma is an inflammatory disease, and anti-inflammatory medications were introduced to treat the condition.
Medications
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Medications used to treat asthma have evolved over the years and now include short-acting beta-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, immunomodulators, inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and cromolyn and theophylline.
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Future Developments
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Some scientists are exploring potential genetic causes of asthma, which could allow doctors to identify and treat people who are likely to have asthma before they develop symptoms.
Misconceptions
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Until the 1960s, many doctors thought asthma was a psychosomatic illness, and patients were referred to psychoanalysts or were treated for depression.
Treatments
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In the past, asthma treatments have included morphine and special asthma cigarettes. The first bronchodilator to treat asthma was introduced in 1901.
Fun Fact
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The word "asthma" comes from the Greek language and first appeared in Homer's "Iliad" to describe shortness of breath.
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