Asthma

About

Causes

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Treatment

About

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What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways — the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. In asthma, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it harder to breathe. This inflammation can be triggered by allergens, infections, exercise, cold air, smoke, or other environmental factors.

Asthma can range from mild to severe, with symptoms occurring occasionally or frequently. It can affect people of all ages, though it often starts in childhood. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Is Asthma common?

Yes, asthma is a widespread condition affecting millions worldwide. It is one of the most common chronic diseases in children but also persists into adulthood for many individuals. Early diagnosis and consistent management are crucial to prevent severe attacks and improve quality of life.

Can Asthma be cured?

Asthma cannot be cured, but symptoms can be controlled. With proper medication, trigger avoidance, and monitoring, most people with asthma can lead normal, active lives. Severe asthma may require more intensive treatment and ongoing care.

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Causes

What causes Asthma?

Asthma occurs due to inflammation and hyperreactivity of the airways. Common triggers and contributing factors include:

  • Allergens – pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold
  • Respiratory infections – cold, flu, or other viral infections
  • Environmental factors – smoke, air pollution, chemical irritants
  • Exercise – especially in cold or dry air
  • Weather changes – cold air, humidity, or sudden temperature shifts
  • Genetics – family history of asthma or allergies
  • Stress or strong emotions – can trigger symptoms in some individuals

What are the risk factors?

You may be more likely to develop asthma if you:

  • Have a family history of asthma or allergies
  • Are exposed to tobacco smoke during childhood
  • Have other allergic conditions, such as eczema or allergic rhinitis
  • Were born prematurely or had low birth weight
  • Live in areas with high air pollution
  • Have frequent respiratory infections in childhood

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Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Asthma?

Asthma symptoms can vary in frequency and intensity but commonly include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
  • Coughing, especially at night or early morning
  • Chest tightness or pressure
  • Difficulty performing physical activities
  • Fatigue during asthma flare-ups

Symptoms can worsen during exposure to triggers or in an asthma attack. Severe attacks can be life-threatening and require emergency care. If you or someone around you has trouble breathing, throat swelling, or feels faint after an exposure, call 911 immediately.

Diagnosis

How is Asthma diagnosed?

Asthma diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and testing:

  • Medical history – including frequency of symptoms, triggers, and family history
  • Physical examination – listening for wheezing or other breathing abnormalities
  • Lung function tests (spirometry) – measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly
  • Peak flow measurement – monitors airflow changes over time
  • Allergy testing – identifies potential triggers
  • Exhaled nitric oxide test – assesses airway inflammation in some cases

Accurate diagnosis helps guide appropriate treatment and long-term management strategies.

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Treatment

How is Asthma treated?

Asthma treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing attacks, and maintaining normal lung function:

Lifestyle and trigger management:

  • Avoiding allergens and irritants (dust, smoke, pets, pollen)
  • Monitoring air quality and weather conditions
  • Exercising safely and using preventive medications if needed
  • Managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Medications:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids – reduce airway inflammation
  • Bronchodilators (short-acting) – provide quick relief during an asthma attack
  • Long-acting bronchodilators – used with corticosteroids for ongoing control
  • Leukotriene modifiers – reduce inflammation and allergic response
  • Biologics – for severe asthma not controlled by standard medications

Emergency treatment:

  • Severe asthma attacks may require epinephrine, oxygen therapy, or hospitalization
  • Quick-acting inhalers should always be available for sudden symptoms

With proper management, most people with asthma can lead active lives, prevent flare-ups, and reduce the risk of severe attacks.

References

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