Overview and Objectives

On April 24, 2024, the Ministry of Health issued Decision No. 1851/QD-BYT on the Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Asthma in adults and children aged 12 and older. This document aims to update the latest medical knowledge and synchronize treatment protocols at healthcare facilities nationwide. The primary goal of the guidelines is to achieve complete symptom control, minimize the risk of exacerbations, preserve lung function, and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Diagnostic Criteria for Asthma

The diagnosis of asthma should be based on a characteristic respiratory history and evidence of variable expiratory airflow limitation. Common clinical symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. These symptoms often vary in time and intensity, with a tendency to worsen at night or early in the morning.

In addition to clinical examination, spirometry is considered the gold standard for confirming the diagnosis. Physicians need to perform lung function tests before and after administering a bronchodilator to evaluate airflow reversibility.

Principles of Treatment and Disease Management

Asthma treatment is a continuous process that requires close coordination between healthcare professionals and patients. Treatment protocols must be individualized based on the current level of symptom control and the specific risk factors of each patient.

The main groups of medications include controller medications (such as Inhaled Corticosteroids – ICS) and reliever medications. The Ministry of Health’s guidelines emphasize the use of low-dose ICS combined with Formoterol as needed as a top priority, effectively relieving symptoms while significantly reducing the risk of exacerbations. Simultaneously, patients should be provided with detailed counseling on avoiding asthma triggers such as tobacco smoke, house dust mites, mold, pollen, and animal dander.

Evaluation and Periodic Monitoring

Asthma patients need regular follow-up visits every 1 to 3 months after initiating treatment, and subsequently every 3 to 12 months depending on the level of disease control. At each follow-up visit, specialists must reassess the patient’s inhaler technique, treatment adherence, and medication side effects, making necessary adjustments to the treatment step (stepping up or stepping down) to maintain optimal efficacy.

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