Why Asthma Control Is The Main Goal
It's important to note that a big reason for wanting asthma control is that when asthma is out of control on a chronic basis, there can be permanent damage to your airways, called airway remodeling. Asthma is a chronic illness, and its long term effects can be serious. But this long-term airway damage is not an inevitable outcome of having asthma.
With effective treatment aimed at consistent asthma control, airway remodeling and other negative effects can be avoided.
In Summary
Asthma control is the ultimate goal of all asthma treatment and management. And it should be a goal that most asthmatics – even those with severe asthma – can achieve. In other words, your goals are to feel good, be active all day and sleep well at night. You should expect nothing less than that.
If you are not getting your asthma under control, even with treatment, then it might be time to consult an asthma specialist, such as a pulmonologist or allergist. There are many effective asthma medications available these days, with more coming on the market at a steady rate. So you don't have to suffer needlessly with asthma symptoms. You can live a life without limits.
Sources:
"Expert Panel Report 3: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma." NHLBI Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Asthma. 28 Aug 2007. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. 18 Dec. 2007 <http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/asthma/asthgdln.pdf>
"How Is Asthma Treated?." . National Heart, Lung, and Blood Insititute Diseases and Conditions Index. 01 Apr 2008
"Pocket Guide for Asthma Management and Prevention." 2006. Global Initiative for Asthma. 01 Apr 2008
