Main symptoms
- •Shortness of breath at rest or on exertion
- •Wheezing
- •Chest tightness
- •Dry cough, especially at night
- •Attacks triggered by allergens, cold or exertion
Risk factors
- ⚠️ Family history of asthma or allergy
- ⚠️ Allergies (pollen, dust mites, animal dander)
- ⚠️ Active and passive smoking
- ⚠️ Air pollution (Casablanca, Rabat)
- ⚠️ Childhood viral respiratory infections
- ⚠️ Occupational exposure (flour, paints, solvents)
- ⚠️ Obesity
Management and treatments
Two-track treatment: **maintenance therapy** (inhaled corticosteroids ± long-acting bronchodilators — budesonide, fluticasone) and **rescue therapy** (short-acting beta-2 agonists: salbutamol, terbutaline). For severe forms: biotherapies (omalizumab, mepolizumab) available in Morocco. Asthma qualifies as ALD — 100% reimbursement by CNOPS/CNSS/AMO Tadamon.
Prevention
Avoid identified allergens (dust mites: anti-mite covers, ventilation), strict smoking cessation (including passive smoke), annual flu and pneumococcal vaccination, suitable physical activity (swimming is ideal), weight control. Annual pulmonologist visit to adjust maintenance therapy.
Frequently asked questions
How can I recognise a severe asthma attack?+
Warning signs: difficulty speaking in full sentences, blue lips/nails, pulse > 120/min, saturation < 92%, no response to Ventolin. Call 141 or 15 IMMEDIATELY — the attack can be fatal.
Can asthmatic children play sport?+
Yes, and it's even recommended! Physical activity (especially swimming) improves lung function. Take 2 puffs of Ventolin 15 min before exercise for exercise-induced asthma.
Is asthma curable?+
Asthma is a chronic disease, but in 60% of paediatric cases symptoms disappear at adolescence. In adults, good control allows a normal life.
How much does monthly asthma treatment cost in Morocco?+
Budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort): 350-450 MAD/inhaler. Reimbursed 100% under ALD, 80% otherwise (CNOPS) / 70% (CNSS).