Bronchial asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. Millions of people suffer from recurring shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. While the causes are diverse—from genetic predisposition to allergies to environmental factors—a new aspect has increasingly become the focus of research in recent years: the microbiome . But what exactly is the microbiome, and what role does it play in asthma? In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about the disease and the surprising connection between our microbial world and the lungs.
What is bronchial asthma?
Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways in which the bronchi are hypersensitive to certain stimuli. This hypersensitivity leads to recurring airway constrictions – sometimes spontaneous, sometimes due to known triggers such as pollen, cold, exertion, or stress.
Typical symptoms of bronchial asthma:
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Shortness of breath , especially when exhaling
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Whistling breathing (wheezing)
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Dry, tickly cough , especially at night
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Chest tightness
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Shortness of breath during physical exertion
Asthma can occur at any age, but often begins in childhood. A distinction is made between allergic asthma , non-allergic asthma , and mixed forms .
Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of bronchial asthma are complex. The most important influencing factors are:
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Genetic predisposition
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Allergies (e.g. to house dust mites, pollen, pet hair)
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Respiratory tract infections
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Air pollution
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Cigarette smoke (including passive smoking)
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Stress and psychological strain
However, recent findings show that the composition of our microbiome , particularly in the intestine and respiratory tract, also plays a crucial role in the development and progression of asthma.
The microbiome: your invisible helpers
The microbiome refers to the totality of all microorganisms—including bacteria, viruses, and fungi—that live in and on our bodies. Of particular importance is the intestinal flora , which in an adult consists of over 100 trillion microorganisms .
These microorganisms influence not only digestion, but also the immune system , metabolism , and even psychological well-being . A balanced microbiome contributes to maintaining health; however, impaired microbial diversity (dysbiosis) can promote inflammation and chronic diseases.
Microbiome and asthma: How are they related?
1. Early childhood development
Studies show that children with depleted gut flora have a higher risk of developing asthma. A diverse microbiome is crucial for the maturation of the immune system , especially in the first year of life.
Factors such as cesarean section, antibiotic use and lack of contact with microorganisms (e.g. due to excessive hygiene) can negatively influence the microbiome – and thus increase the likelihood of asthma.
2. Immune system regulation
A balanced microbiome helps maintain the immune system in balance. It promotes an anti-inflammatory immune response and prevents excessive reactions, such as those typical in asthma. Dysbiosis, on the other hand, disrupts immune regulation, which can exacerbate inflammatory processes in the bronchi.
3. Respiratory microbiome
Not only the gut, but also the lungs have their own microbiome . In healthy people, the upper respiratory tract is populated with a variety of harmless microorganisms. In asthma patients, however, there is often a shift toward pathogenic germs, which can promote inflammation and overreactions.
Strengthen microbiome – relieve asthma?
Although research is still in its infancy, initial studies suggest that targeted interventions in the microbiome could help alleviate or even prevent asthma. Possible approaches include:
Probiotics & Prebiotics
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Probiotics are living microorganisms that can have positive effects on the intestinal flora.
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Prebiotics promote the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria (e.g. inulin, resistant starch).
Healthy, fiber-rich diet
A varied diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grain products and fermented foods (e.g. sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir) supports microbiome diversity.
Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
Antibiotics not only destroy harmful bacteria, but also beneficial ones – conscious use protects the microbiome.
Allow contact with nature and dirt
A certain amount of contact with germs, for example through playing outdoors, promotes microbial diversity – especially in childhood.
Conclusion: Consider bronchial asthma holistically
Bronchial asthma is more than just a respiratory disease—it is an interplay of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. The microbiome plays a key role in both the development and progression of the disease.
Holistic asthma therapy should therefore not only treat symptoms, but also focus on lifestyle and gut health . Supporting a healthy microbiome through diet, exercise, and targeted probiotics can be a promising way to strengthen the immune system and provide long-term relief from asthma symptoms.
