Asthma: A New Way to Measure Control
Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at 09:19AM There haven't been many new discoveries in asthma assessment over the last few years. Guidelines for asthma care were revised in 2007 by the NIH (National Institute of Health). But a new way of measuring the level of asthma control has surfaced over the last 10 or so years (but not in time to make the 2007 guidelines). Measuring Nitric Oxide (NO) from the breath (during exhalation) has proven to be a useful tool for some asthma specialists in the U.S. and other parts of the world.
Several years ago researchers discovered NO is emitted in increasing amounts based on the level of inflammation in the lung tissue. A low level of inflammation is associated with low a level of NO. In cases of severe asthma, high levels of inflammation occur. They found that high levels of NO are exhaled in these circumstances.
Several months ago my practice acquired two FeNO devices (FeNO= Fractional Expired Nitric Oxide) in order to assist in the management of our asthma patients. This device requires a certain level of skill in controlled breathing but is not difficult for most adults and children to do. The results are obtained immediately after the breathing exercise is completed.
FeNO has helped us to further identify our patients that may require more medication for control of inflammation in the lungs. On the other hand, FeNO allows us to more confidently step down on controller medications when patients have results that show minimal signs of inflammation. There are some patients with allergy or sinus problems that cough frequently but do not wheeze. Often their PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) is normal. FeNO allows us to further identify whether the recurring cough represents a form of asthma (Cough Variant Asthma) or perhaps another problem (Postnasal Drip, GERD, Sinus Infection etc.).
Although FeNO will not answer all our questions when it comes to monitoring and managing asthma, it is a welcomed addition to our play-book.
Here is a link to more information about FeNO:
If you are a patient in our practice (Associated Allergists and Asthma Specialists Ltd.) and have asthma, ask about FeNO and whether it may be helpful in your situation. Currently it is available in our Orland Park and Highland Park offices.
Reader Comments (2)
Wonderful post... Very informational and educational as usual!
Acai Optimum
I appreciate your comment. Thank You!!!