We understand you probably want to know what asthma is, its symptoms and the causes. This article will answer all your questions.
Overview
Asthma is a disease that affects the breathing passages of the lungs. It’s a condition in which your airways narrow and swells to produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult which triggers coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. It causes resistance, or obstruction, to exhaled air. Asthma is also known as obstructive lung disease. An asthma attack can happen at any time.
Want to know the Symptoms of Asthma?
Asthma symptoms are not similar in every case, you may not have all the symptoms or may have different symptoms at the time. We have specified some of the known reported symptoms underneath:
- Wheezing – Wheeze is a continuous, coarse, whistling sound produced in the respiratory airways during breathing
- Shortness of breath – Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is an uncomfortable condition that makes it difficult to fully get air into your lungs
- Chest snugness – Chest pain or tightness is common in people
- Trouble talking – The term really refers to just how easy it is for you to talk without becoming winded. In most cases, asthma sufferers find that they have trouble finishing a complete sentence without having a need to take another breath
- Coughing – Asthmatics have reported coughing a lot, without having flu symptoms
- Sleeping disorder – Patients may face sleeping disorder
- Uneasy in body and increase in palpitation – It may increase your palpitation and uneasiness in body
- Itchiness to throat and chin – In some cases, its sufferers have claimed of feeling itchiness in throat and chin
It affects different people in different ways, and its symptoms can vary over time. That’s why it’s so important to work closely with your doctor or an asthma educator to determine the medications and management strategies that are right for you.
Causes of Asthma
Asthma can be triggered at any time, however in most of the cases, it gets activated at night. Some of the triggers of it are listed below:
- Airborne allergens – Outdoor allergens, such as pollens from grass, trees, weeds, pet dander, dust mites, and mold
- Hereditary – It can be triggered if your family has past asthma history
- Intolerance to drugs or food – Certain drugs and food additives can trigger it
- Weather conditions – Fluctuation/Change in weather such as cold air or extremely dry, wet or windy weather can trigger it
- Polluted air – Irritants in the air, such as smoke, chemical fumes, and strong odors
Asthma Treatment and Prevention
There is no cure for it. Control symptoms by taking asthma medicines and avoiding your triggers. With proper treatment and an asthma management plan, you can reduce your symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
Disclaimer: The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.