Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Asthma is a common condition of the lungs that causes breathing difficulties. This condition affects people of all ages, usually starting in childhood. It can however, develop in adults too. There is no permanent cure, but there are treatment options that can help to control the symptoms.

Symptoms of asthma

The common symptoms are:

• Wheezing (whistling sound from lungs)
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Feeling of tightness around the chest
  
• Coughing

The symptoms may worsen for a short period which is known as an Asthma attack.

When to see a doctor

You have to see a doctor if you think you or your child may have asthma. There are other conditions which can cause similar symptoms, so it’s important to get a correct diagnosis from a doctor and proper treatment. The doctor will be able to diagnose asthma by taking history about symptoms and doing some tests.

Treatment options

Asthma is usually treated by using an inhaler device.

The main types are:

• Reliever inhalers – These are used when urgently needed to relieve asthma symptoms
  
• Preventer inhalers – These are used every day to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring

Some people may also need to take tablets.

What causes asthma and what are the triggers

Asthma is caused by the swelling (inflammation) of the airway tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. This causes the tubes to narrow. This can occur randomly or after exposure to a certain trigger.

Common asthma triggers include:

• Dust mites
  
• Animal fur
  
• Pollen
  
• Smoke, Pollution
  
• Change in weather
  
• Exercise
  
• Infections like colds or flu

Identifying and avoiding your these triggers can help you keep your symptoms under control.

How long does asthma lasts?

Asthma is a life long-term condition for some people, especially if it first develops during adult years. If it occurs in children, it normally disappears by the time a child reaches the teenage years. In some cases in can come back later in life. The symptoms are mostly controlled with treatment. Majority of people will lead normal, active lives. However, some people with worsening asthma may have ongoing problems.

Complications of asthma

Asthma for most people is normally under control. However, for some it can lead to a number of complications. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and treatment and not  to ignore if and when your symptoms get worse.

Uncontrolled asthma can cause problems like:

• Feeling fatigued most of the time
  
• Frequent absence from school or work
  
• Not being able to perform satisfactorily at school or work
  
• Feelings of stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression
  
• Disruption of your work and leisure because of unplanned visits to a GP or hospital
  
• Frequent lung infections like pneumonia
  
• Delayed growth or puberty in children

The risk of severe asthma attacks area also high, which can be life threatening.