Asthma is a common chronic lung disease that causes your airways to become swollen and inflamed, making it hard to breathe. When its symptoms get worse than usual, it is called an asthma attack or flare-up. This medical condition cannot be cured but it can be managed and controlled.
Asthma, also called bronchial asthma, is a long-term lung disease that affects your airways, making them inflamed and swollen. This condition can affect people of all ages and can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. Severe asthma can even cause trouble speaking and being active. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), asthma affected an estimated 262 million people in the year 2019 and caused 4,55,000 deaths. It is one of the most common chronic conditions all over the world. Asthma cannot be cured but fortunately, its symptoms can be managed.
Causes of Asthma
Asthma is caused by swelling or inflammation of the breathing tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. This makes the tubes highly sensitive, so they temporarily narrow. While there’s no exact cause of asthma, these factors may play an important role in its development:
Hereditary: Hereditary factors play a crucial role in asthma. Individuals with a family history of the condition are more susceptible, suggesting a genetic component. Certain genes related to immune responses and airway sensitivity can increase one’s likelihood of developing asthma.
Allergy: Allergies are closely linked to asthma. Allergic reactions to substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold can trigger asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. The immune system’s response to allergens can lead to airway inflammation and constriction.
Air pollution: Air pollution is a well-documented environmental factor that can exacerbate or trigger asthma. Pollutants like fine particulate matter and ozone can irritate the airways, worsening asthma symptoms and potentially leading to the development of the condition in those with genetic predispositions.
Infections: Respiratory infections, particularly during early childhood, can increase the risk of asthma. Viral infections like the common cold or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may contribute to airway inflammation and heightened sensitivity in susceptible individuals.
Irritants: Irritants in the environment, such as strong odors, fumes, and airborne chemicals, can provoke asthma symptoms. These irritants can vary widely, from perfumes and cleaning products to industrial pollutants.
Obesity: Obesity is associated with a higher risk of asthma, as excess body weight can lead to inflammation and increased respiratory effort.
Exercise: Exercise-induced asthma is a specific subtype triggered by physical activity, particularly in cold, dry air. While exercise is generally beneficial, some individuals may experience asthma symptoms during or after physical exertion.
Tobacco smoke: Tobacco smoke, whether from active smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, is a known asthma trigger. Smoking damages the airways and can lead to chronic inflammation.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also play a role in asthma. Stomach acid reflux into the esophagus may enter the airways, leading to irritation and asthma symptoms.
Strong emotions: Strong emotions and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms, although their exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
Cold weather: Cold weather can trigger asthma in some individuals, likely due to the constriction of airways in response to the cold, dry air.
Medications: Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta-blockers, can worsen asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Key Facts About Asthma
Major Symptoms
Wheezing (whistling sound when breathing)
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough, especially at night or early in the morning
Chest tightness
Increased mucus production
Difficulty in exhaling
Rapid breathing
Chest pain
Fatigue
Trouble sleeping
Allergic triggers such as dust, pollen, and smoke
Necessary Health Tests
Medical history
Physical examination
Breathing tests
Peak flow measurements
Bronchoprovocation tests
Allergy tests
Treatment
Lifestyle changes
Identifying triggers
Stop smoking
Regular exercise
Healthy diet
Medications
Relievers (Bronchodilators)
Controllers (Anti-inflammatories)
Biologics
Combination inhalers
Oral steroids
Symptoms of Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can vary in severity, and these symptoms may differ in individuals. Common symptoms of asthma include:
Wheezing (whistling sound when breathing)
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough, especially at night or early in the morning
Chest tightness
Increased mucus production
Difficulty in exhaling
Rapid breathing
Chest pain
Fatigue
Trouble sleeping
Allergic triggers such as dust, pollen, and smoke
An asthma attack is also one of its dangerous symptoms, which occurs only when asthma symptoms become severe. During an asthma attack, a person may experience:
Severe shortness of breath
Intense chest tightness or pain
Inability to speak due to breathlessness
Anxiety and panic
Bluish lips or fingernails
These symptoms can improve with inhaler use.
Diagnosis of Asthma
For proper diagnosis, your doctor may review your medical history and various tests, including physical examination, imaging tests, and lung function tests.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. They will inquire about the frequency and triggers of these symptoms.
Physical examination: The doctor will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope, looking for wheezing or other abnormal sounds. They will also assess your overall health and breathing patterns.
Breathing tests: Spirometry is a key test for asthma diagnosis. It measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly.
Peak flow measurements: This test involves blowing into a peak flow meter to measure how fast you can breathe out. Variations in peak flow readings can help diagnose and monitor asthma.
Bronchoprovocation tests: These tests are done in specialized cases and involve inhaling substances that trigger asthma symptoms to confirm the diagnosis.
Imaging test: In some cases, a chest X-ray or CT scan may be performed to rule out other respiratory conditions.
Allergy tests: Identifying allergens that trigger asthma can be important. Allergy skin tests or blood tests may be conducted.
Treatment of Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can be effectively managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Here’s an overview of both aspects of treatment:
Lifestyle changes
Identify triggers: The first step in managing asthma is recognizing and avoiding triggers. Common triggers include allergens, smoke, pollution, and respiratory infections.
Stop smoking: If you’re a smoker, quitting is crucial. Smoking irritates the airways and worsens asthma symptoms. Also save yourself from second-hand smoke.
Regular exercise: Physical activity is beneficial, but it should be done with caution. Consult your healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan that suits your condition.
Healthy diet: A well-balanced diet can support overall health. Some individuals with asthma may benefit from anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables.
Stress management: Stress can trigger asthma symptoms. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, can help.
Medications
Relievers (Bronchodilators): These are quick-acting medications, such as albuterol, that provide immediate relief by relaxing the airway muscles during an asthma attack or when symptoms worsen.
Controllers (Anti-inflammatories): Inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, and other anti-inflammatory medications are used to prevent asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction.
Biologics: These medications target specific immune system components involved in asthma. They are used for severe, uncontrolled asthma.
Combination inhalers: Some medications combine a corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist for both short- and long-term control.
Oral steroids: In severe cases or during exacerbations, oral corticosteroids like prednisone may be prescribed.
Do genetics play a role in the development of asthma?
Yes, genetics can influence asthma risk. If you have a family history of asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions, you may be at a higher risk of developing asthma.
Is asthma contagious?
No, asthma is not contagious. It is a chronic respiratory condition with genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
What are the common causes of asthma?
Common asthma triggers include allergens (pollen, dust mites), irritants (e.g., smoke, pollution), respiratory infections, exercise, and emotional factors. Genetics also plays a role.
Can asthma be treated?
Asthma can be effectively managed but not cured. Treatment involves medications (inhalers, for example), lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
How can I prevent asthma?
While you can't prevent asthma if you have a genetic predisposition, you can reduce the risk of symptoms by avoiding triggers, quitting smoking, managing allergies, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Is there a link between asthma and other health conditions like diabetes or heart disease?
Some studies suggest a possible association between asthma and conditions like diabetes and heart disease, possibly due to chronic inflammation. However, more research is needed to establish a definitive link.