About asthma

Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers for asthma attacks can include exercise, allergies, cold air, stress, and exposure to air pollutants. Treatment for asthma involves avoiding triggers, using quick-relief (rescue) inhalers during an attack, and taking long-term control medications as prescribed by a doctor. In severe cases, an asthma action plan may be necessary to manage the disease and prevent serious complications.

Who is affected?

Asthma affects people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that around 339 million people worldwide have asthma, with children making up about half of this number. Asthma can affect people of any race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status and is more common in urban areas. People with a family history of asthma, allergies, or atopic diseases such as eczema have a higher risk of developing asthma.

Symptoms of asthma

The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:

• Wheezing: a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, especially during exhalation
• Coughing: especially at night or early in the morning
• Shortness of breath: feeling breathless or unable to catch one's breath
• Chest tightness: a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest
• Rapid breathing: breathing faster than normal

Other symptoms may include:

• Trouble breathing during physical activity or exercise
• Trouble sleeping due to coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty speaking due to shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort

It is important to note that these symptoms may also be present in other respiratory conditions and may require a medical evaluation to confirm a diagnosis of asthma.

Causes of asthma

The exact cause of asthma is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the factors that may contribute to the development of asthma include:

• Genetics: having a family history of asthma, allergies, or atopic diseases such as eczema increases the risk of developing asthma.
• Exposure to environmental triggers: exposure to air pollutants, tobacco smoke, household chemicals, and other irritants can trigger asthma symptoms.
• Infections: respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, and pneumonia can increase the risk of developing asthma, especially in young children.
• Allergies: having allergies, such as hay fever or pet allergies, can increase the risk of developing asthma.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: people with pre-existing medical conditions such as heartburn (GERD) or obesity may have an increased risk of developing asthma.
• Early life exposure: exposure to environmental factors in early life, such as air pollution, passive smoke, or allergens, may increase the risk of developing asthma.

Diagnosing asthma

Diagnosing asthma typically involves a combination of a medical history review, physical examination, and various tests to evaluate lung function. The following tests may be used to diagnose asthma:

• Lung function tests: pulmonary function tests (pfts), such as spirometry, are used to measure how well the lungs are functioning. The test measures the amount and speed of air that can be breathed out, which can help identify airway obstruction, a hallmark of asthma.
• Allergy testing: skin prick or blood tests can be used to identify allergies, as allergies are a common trigger for asthma.
• Methacholine challenge test: this test is used to determine if the airways are hyper responsive, meaning they overreact to triggers such as cold air, exercise, or allergens.
• Imaging tests: chest X-rays or CT scans can be used to rule out other lung conditions and to assess the overall health of the lungs.
• Medical history review: the doctor will review the patient's medical history, including symptoms, triggers, and family history, to help diagnose asthma.

It is important to note that a definitive diagnosis of asthma can only be made by a qualified healthcare provider, and that a combination of tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis. Additionally, a diagnosis of asthma may be revised over time as the patient's symptoms and response to treatment change.

Treating asthma

Treating asthma involves a combination of avoiding triggers, using quick-relief (rescue) medications during an asthma attack, and taking long-term control medications as prescribed by a doctor. The following are some of the ways that asthma can be treated:

• Avoidance of triggers: avoiding triggers such as air pollutants, tobacco smoke, pet dander, and dust mites can help prevent asthma symptoms.
• Quick-relief (rescue) medications: short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, can be used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms during an attack. These medications work by relaxing the muscles around the airways and making it easier to breathe.
• Long-term control medications: these medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, are used to control inflammation in the airways and prevent symptoms from occurring. They may be used daily, even when the patient is feeling well, to keep the airways open and prevent asthma attacks.
• Allergy treatment: for people with allergies that trigger their asthma, allergy treatment such as immunotherapy (allergy shots) or oral medications may be recommended.
• Oxygen therapy: in severe cases of asthma, oxygen therapy may be necessary to improve oxygen levels in the blood.
• Asthma action plan: for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma, an asthma action plan may be developed in collaboration with a healthcare provider. The plan outlines what to do in case of an asthma attack, and provides a step-by-step guide to manage the disease and prevent serious complications.

It is important to note that the best treatment plan for asthma will vary from person to person, and may change over time as the patient's symptoms and response to treatment change. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to ensure that the treatment plan is effective and to make any necessary adjustments.

Living with asthma

Living with asthma can be a challenge, but with proper management, people with asthma can lead healthy and active lives. Here are some tips for living with asthma:

• Follow your asthma action plan: work with your doctor to develop an asthma action plan and follow it closely. This plan should include information about triggers, medications, and what to do in case of an asthma attack.
• Take control of your triggers: identify and avoid triggers that can worsen asthma symptoms. This may include things like air pollutants, tobacco smoke, pet dander, and dust mites.
• Use medications as prescribed: take long-term control medications as prescribed by your doctor, even when you're feeling well, to prevent symptoms from occurring.
• Stay active: physical activity is important for overall health and can help improve lung function. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you.
• Monitor your symptoms: keep track of your symptoms and any changes in your breathing, and report them to your doctor.

Manage stress: stress can trigger asthma symptoms, so finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise,

• meditation, or deep breathing, can be helpful.
• Stay informed: learn as much as you can about asthma, including triggers, treatments, and how to manage the disease.
• Work with your healthcare team: maintain regular follow-up appointments with your doctor and other healthcare providers to stay on top of your asthma management.

Remember, everyone's experience with asthma is different, so it's important to work with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that works for you. With proper management, people with asthma can live healthy and active lives.