“Don’t ignore the signs” – Why early asthma diagnosis matters
Asthma | 05 May 2026
Asthma is a not yet curable chronic condition that must be diagnosed and treated early, to be optimally managed. That is the message of Dr. Matteo Bonini, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the Sapienza University of Rome.
According to the clinician–researcher, an early diagnosis is vitally important because it means asthma can be controlled and long-term damage limited.
“Asthma can worsen over time and leave irreversible damage if it is not addressed.”
Don't dismiss that cough
So, when should you visit a medical professional?
It’s not always obvious, says Bonini, because asthma symptoms can look like other things.
“But even if you have just mild or occasional symptoms, you may have underlying inflammation in the airways, and you should seek a medical opinion.”
Feeling out of breath, coughing, and wheezing are some common symptoms of asthma. They may be triggered by allergens, pollutants, respiratory infections, or laughter, and vary widely between individuals. However, typical symptoms at night may be particularly suggestive of a diagnosis of asthma.
Getting the full picture
Asthma symptoms vary between individuals and over time, which means that a diagnosis based only on the symptoms a patient has observed is not recommended.
Some people may underestimate symptoms, while others may experience symptoms that point to other respiratory conditions. This makes professional evaluation important. A proper diagnosis combines reported symptoms with lung function testing, preferably by a respiratory physician.
“Your clinical history will also be taken into account," says Bonini. “A family history of asthma, allergies, or early-life wheezing increases your likelihood of having asthma.”1,2
From diagnosis to daily life
Ultimately, early diagnosis enables timely treatment, reduces future risks, and supports long-term control, helping people lead full lives with asthma. But uncontrolled asthma can lead to life-threatening attacks.
Dr. Bonini explains that the current standard for treating asthma is with maintenance and reliever inhalers. According to the latest guidelines of GINA, the Global Initiative for Asthma, adolescents and adults with asthma should be given access to ICS-containing medication to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations.2
Inhaled corticosteroids treat the underlying airway inflammation, he says, noting that current treatment emphasizes long-term control rather than short-term relief.
Prevention beats playing catch-up
Professor Bonini explains that how medical professionals think about and treat asthma has shifted as science has developed.
“Emphasis is increasingly on recognizing it early and treating it properly from the beginning, rather than just responding to worsening of symptoms with only short-acting bronchodilators.”
Anti-inflammatory treatment should be the norm even in mild cases because patients may still suffer from severe exacerbations even if they experience symptoms only infrequently.
Patients sometimes struggle with adhering to their prescribed course of treatment and some face challenges with inhaler use, which can reduce treatment effectiveness.3 Following medical advice and ensuring proper inhalation techniques are essential. Inhaling properly is an important part of management of the condition as well as consistent use of medication.
Bonini’s message is clear: Don’t ignore the signs. The condition is manageable in most cases with the right approach.4 Early recognition, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment allow most individuals to achieve good control and maintain a normal quality of life.
References:
1. Thomsen SF. Genetics of asthma: an introduction for the clinician. Eur Clin Respir J. 2015;2:24643.
2. Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention 2025. ginasthma.org (Accessed March 2026).
3. Mäkelä MJ, Backer V, Hedegaard M, Larsson K. Adherence to inhaled therapies, health outcomes and costs in patients with asthma and COPD. Respir Med. 2013 Oct;107(10):1481-90.
4. World Health Organization: Asthma www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma (Accessed March 2026).
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