Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It is characterised by episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, which can range from mild to severe.
The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some common triggers for asthma attacks include:
- Respiratory infections, such as the common cold
- Allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites
- Irritants, such as smoke and pollution
- Physical activity
- Certain medications, such as aspirin and beta blockers
- Hormonal changes
- Emotional stress
Asthma can be classified into several subtypes, depending on the underlying cause and the symptoms.
- Allergic asthma: triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites
- Non-allergic asthma: triggered by respiratory infections, irritants, and physical activity.
- Occupational asthma: triggered by exposure to certain substances in the workplace
- Asthma-COPD overlap (ACO): a condition that shares features of both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms of asthma include:
SYMPTOMS
- Wheezing: a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe, especially during exhalation
- Shortness of breath: feeling like you can’t catch your breath or that you’re not getting enough air
- Chest tightness: a squeezing or pressure sensation in the chest
- Coughing: particularly at night or early in the morning
- Rapid breathing: breathing faster than normal
- Trouble breathing: feeling like you’re working harder to breathe than usual
Some people with asthma may also experience:
- Fatigue: feeling tired or weak due to difficulty breathing
- Trouble sleeping: due to coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Trouble exercising: feeling out of breath or experiencing chest tightness during physical activity
- Trouble speaking: feeling like you can’t catch your breath to speak
Asthma is typically managed with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Medications used to treat asthma include bronchodilators, which relax the muscles in the airways to open them up; and corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation in the airways. Lifestyle changes that can help manage asthma include avoiding triggers, practicing good respiratory hygiene, and engaging in regular physical activity.
It’s important to note that asthma symptoms can come and go, with periods of time when symptoms are worse (called asthma exacerbations or flares) and other times when they improve or disappear completely (remissions).