Asthma

Overview

Asthma is a chronic lung disorder brought on by many factors. The main things that trigger asthma are exercise, stress and the environment. Symptoms of asthma are different for different people and vary in the length of time they persist and the degree of severity. Fortunately, there are medications as well as preventive measures.

Causes

The scientific causes of asthma are unknown. However, there are many known factors that trigger asthma. Some are general, such as pollen in the air during spring, and some are more specific things, such as exercising. An asthma attack occurs when the airways get irritated – making the airways swell and close up – or when the muscles in the airways spasm, contracting and closing.

Symptoms and Risk Factors

Suspect asthma if the following symptoms continuously occur:

1. Shortness of breath

2. Wheezing

3. Constant coughing

4. Tightening feeling in the chest

Doctors can also help diagnose asthma. After a patient has experienced these symptoms, doctors will investigate family history. They may also do tests breathing patterns during exercise or the effects of deep inhaling and exhaling.

The main risk factors of asthma have to do with age and heredity. People are more at risk under age 5, in their 30s, or over 65. There is also a higher risk if there is a family history of asthma or allergies, and if there is exposure to secondhand smoke.

Prevention

Although asthma is genetically influenced, certain things can help prevent it. If possible, try to:

1. Live in an environment with low air pollution (avoid large cities). This reduces irritation of the airways.

2. Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight puts more of a strain on the airways, especially during exercise, and increases the chances for shortness of breath as well.

3. Exercise regularly to strengthen airways’ muscles.

4. Take allergy medicine during spring and fall when there is an excessive amount of pollen in the air. This will help with irritation and reduce the chances of an asthma attack.

5. Avoid the following triggers, if possible:

a. Pollen

b. Dust

c. Chemicals (most often in a workplace)

d. Animal hair or dander

e. Cigarette or cigar smoke

f. Emotional stress

Asthma Attacks

During an asthma attack, one of the above triggers causes the pathways to the lungs to become irritated. After the initial irritation, the pathways may begin to close, the muscles may contract or increased amounts of mucus may be produced. This can cause chest pains, difficulties breathing, and a whistling sound during breathing. During an attack, inhalers are usually used to ease the breathing and help open the airways up again.

Medications

There are different medication options for asthma. The main types are:

1. Inhalers, which are used during asthma attacks. These help the individual breathe in medicine that will reopen their airways. Inhalers work by forcing the muscles in the bronchial tubes to relax and let through more air. They also enable people to cough up excessive mucus more easily.

2. Medications can be taken on a regular basis to prevent attacks. These help with night coughing and prevent daytime breathing difficulties. They are more formally known as anti-inflammatory drugs.