What is Asthma?
A chronic inflammatory condition affecting the airways and lungs, causing breathing difficulties due to narrowed or swollen airways and excess mucus. This long-term condition impacts both children and adults and is often underdiagnosed and inadequately treated.
What Are the Different Types of Asthma?
Asthma is classified into several types based on causes and severity:
- Intermittent Asthma: Symptoms occur occasionally, with periods of normalcy between flare-ups.
- Persistent Asthma: Symptoms are frequent and can range from mild to severe.
- Adult-Onset Asthma: Asthma that first develops after age 18.
- Pediatric-Onset Asthma: Asthma that begins before age 5.
- Exercise-Induced Asthma: Triggered by physical activity.
- Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS): Occurs when asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are present together.
What Are the Symptoms of Asthma?
Common symptoms of asthma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness, pain, or pressure
- Wheezing
- Trouble sleeping
- Coughing
- Rapid breathing
- Anxiousness or panic
What Causes Asthma?
Asthma typically arises from a mix of environmental and genetic factors, such as:
- Genetics and family history
- Exposure to triggers like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander
- Respiratory infections like colds or flu
- Physical activity and cold air
- Air pollutants, including dust and smoke
- Certain medications and food additives
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
What Are the Risk Factors for Asthma?
- Family history
- Presence of other medical conditions like atopic dermatitis
- Being overweight
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Pollution and occupational triggers
How Is Asthma Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a physical examination and tests such as:
- Reviewing medical and family history
- Lung function tests (spirometry, peak flow test)
- Chest X-rays
- Blood, sputum, or skin tests to rule out allergies and infections
How Is Asthma Treated and Managed?
Treatment aims to control symptoms and includes:
- Bronchodilators: Medications that relax airway muscles.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medicines: Reduce airway swelling and mucus production.
- Biologic Therapies: For persistent symptoms despite inhaler use.
- Medications may be taken orally or through inhalers.
Can Asthma Be Prevented?
Asthma cannot be prevented, but attacks can be managed with:
- An asthma action plan developed with your healthcare provider
- Regular monitoring and treatment
- Vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia
- Avoiding known triggers
- Monitoring and addressing symptoms early
- Adhering to prescribed medication
Working closely with your doctor to create and follow an asthma action plan can help manage symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life.
