What Is Brittle Asthma?

Brittle asthma is a rare and severe type of asthma where symptoms can suddenly become very serious and difficult to control. People with brittle asthma may have frequent asthma attacks that do not respond well to usual treatments, even if they’re taking their medication properly.

How is brittle asthma different from regular asthma?

Most people with asthma can manage their condition well with inhalers and regular check-ups. Brittle asthma is different because:

It causes sudden and unpredictable asthma attacks
Symptoms can change quickly, even when asthma seems under control
It often leads to emergency hospital visits or intensive care treatment

What are the types of brittle asthma?

There are two types of brittle asthma:

Type 1:

People have continuous daily symptoms and frequent severe asthma attacks, even when they take high doses of medication.

Type 2:

People have normal or near-normal asthma most of the time but suddenly experience a severe asthma attack with little warning.

What are the symptoms of brittle asthma?

Brittle asthma has the same symptoms as regular asthma but tends to be more extreme. These include:

Severe breathlessness
Wheezing and tight chest
Sudden and intense coughing fits
Frequent hospital visits due to asthma attacks

People with brittle asthma may also feel anxious or fearful because of how unpredictable their condition is.

What causes brittle asthma?

The exact cause is not always known, but it may be linked to:

Allergies or sensitivity to specific triggers
Stress or emotional factors
Viral infections
Not responding well to standard asthma medicines

How is brittle asthma treated?

Because brittle asthma is difficult to manage, treatment is often more intensive and personalised. It may include:

Higher doses of preventer inhalers or steroid tablets
Specialist care from a respiratory consultant
Biologic therapies (advanced medicines given by injection or infusion)
Regular monitoring and tailored asthma action plans

Can brittle asthma be cured?

Brittle asthma cannot be cured, but it can be managed with the right support. Ongoing care from a specialist team is important to reduce the risk of severe attacks and improve quality of life.

What should someone with brittle asthma do in an emergency?

If an asthma attack does not improve with a reliever inhaler (blue inhaler), call 999 immediately. Always carry your inhalers and have an up-to-date asthma action plan in place.

Key Takeaways

Brittle asthma is a rare and severe form of asthma with unpredictable and intense attacks.
There are two types – one with constant symptoms, and one with sudden severe flare-ups.
It needs specialised treatment and regular medical support from an asthma specialist.
Emergency plans and quick access to care are essential for safety.
Even though it’s hard to control, brittle asthma can be managed with the right help and medicines.

Important: If you or someone you know has frequent or severe asthma attacks, speak to a GP or asthma specialist. Early support can prevent serious complications and improve daily life.