Bronchial asthma is a respiratory disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways. It is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide.

The symptoms of bronchial asthma include wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. However, the diagnosis of bronchial asthma is not always straightforward and requires multiple diagnostic tests. In this article, we will discuss the five essential diagnostic tests for discovering bronchial asthma.

1. Spirometry

Spirometry is the most commonly used diagnostic test for bronchial asthma.

It measures the amount of air that can be exhaled forcefully in one second (forced expiratory volume in one second or FEV1) and the total amount of air that can be exhaled (forced vital capacity or FVC). The results of spirometry can help diagnose bronchial asthma and also determine the severity of the disease. In bronchial asthma, the FEV1 is reduced, and the ratio of FEV1/FVC is less than 70%.

2. Peak Expiratory Flow

Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is a measure of the maximum speed of expiration. It is measured using a peak flow meter, a small handheld device. PEF is a useful diagnostic test for bronchial asthma and also for monitoring the disease.

Patients with bronchial asthma have reduced PEF values, which can be improved with the use of bronchodilators.

3. Bronchial Provocation Test

The bronchial provocation test is used to diagnose bronchial asthma in patients with normal spirometry results. In this test, the patient inhales a bronchoconstrictor substance such as methacholine or histamine.

The test measures the degree of constriction of the airways. If there is a significant increase in airway constriction, it confirms the diagnosis of bronchial asthma.

4. Chest X-Ray

A chest X-ray is not a specific diagnostic test for bronchial asthma but can help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

A chest X-ray can also detect any abnormalities in the lungs that may be associated with bronchial asthma such as hyperinflation of the lungs.

5. Blood Tests

Blood tests are not diagnostic tests for bronchial asthma but can help determine the degree of inflammation in the body. Eosinophil counts are particularly useful in diagnosing bronchial asthma as eosinophilic inflammation is a hallmark of the disease.

Blood tests can also detect other conditions that may be associated with bronchial asthma such as allergies.

In conclusion, bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that requires multiple diagnostic tests for accurate diagnosis.

Spirometry, peak expiratory flow, bronchial provocation test, chest X-ray, and blood tests are the five essential diagnostic tests for discovering bronchial asthma. A combination of these tests can help diagnose bronchial asthma and also determine the severity of the disease.