Holistic Management with Family Doctor Approach in a 42-Year-Old Woman with Moderate Persistant Asthma

Abstract

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation and symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, and chest tightness that vary in frequency and intensity. This study aims to describe holistic management of a patient with moderate persistent asthma using a family doctor approach. This study used a descriptive case report design. Primary data were obtained through autoanamnesis, physical examination, and home visits, while secondary data were collected from medical records at the Panjang Public Health Center. The patient, Mrs. LM, 42 years old, was diagnosed with moderate persistent asthma with recurrent episodes of dyspnea triggered by dust, smoke, physical activity, and stress. Comprehensive management included pharmacological therapy consisting of bronchodilators, combination inhaled corticosteroids with long-acting beta-agonists, and antihistamines. Non-pharmacological interventions included patient education, the use of poster media, asthma exercise training, and trigger avoidance strategies. The family was actively involved to improve treatment adherence, supervise medication use, and support environmental control at home. Evaluation showed clinical improvement with reduced frequency of asthma attacks, increased patient knowledge based on pre-test and post-test comparisons, and improved family support. The family doctor approach enables comprehensive identification of internal and external risk factors, allowing targeted interventions. Holistic management proved effective in improving quality of life, controlling symptoms, and preventing recurrence in a sustainable manner.