Clinical Profile and Bronchodilator Reversibility Pattern in 100 Patients with Bronchial Asthma: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disorder characterized by variable airflow obstruction and bronchodilator reversibility. Clinical characteristics and spirometric response patterns vary across populations. Aim is to study the clinical profile, comorbidities, and bronchodilator reversibility pattern in 100 patients with bronchial asthma. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital over 2 years. One hundred clinically diagnosed asthma patients attending chest OPD/IPD were included. Detailed history, examination, laboratory investigations, chest radiography, PEFR, and spirometry were performed. Bronchodilator reversibility (BDR) testing was conducted using inhaled salbutamol. An increase in FEV₁ ≥12% and ≥200 mL was considered significant. Results: The mean age was 41.67 years. Males constituted 54% and females 46% (M:F = 1:0.85). Most patients (42%) were aged 21–40 years. Seasonal pattern was observed in 53% and seasonal-on-perennial in 28%. Upper respiratory symptoms were present in 78%, inhalant allergy in 53%, and positive family history in 35%. Comorbidities were present in 26%, with hypertension (15%) being most common. Sputum eosinophilia was seen in 47%, while AEC >500 cells/mm³ was noted in 11%. After bronchodilator therapy, mean FEV₁ improved by 20%, FVC by 32%, and PEFR by 12%. Significant bronchodilator reversibility was observed in 86% of patients. Conclusion: Bronchial asthma commonly affects young adults with male predominance in this cohort. Seasonal variation, inhalant allergy, and upper respiratory symptoms were frequent associations. Spirometry with bronchodilator reversibility remains a reliable diagnostic and monitoring tool in asthma.