Overview

Asthma is a major noncommunicable disease (NCD), affecting both children and adults, and is the most common chronic disease among children.
It is a condition in which the airways narrow and swell and may
produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and cause
coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and
shortness of breath.

Symptoms

• Asthma symptoms differentiates from person to person. You may have infrequent asthma attacks, have symptoms only at certain times, such as when exercising or have symptoms all the time. Asthma signs and symptoms include: Symptoms • Shortness of breath • Chest tightness or pain • Wheezing when exhaling, which is a common sign of asthma in children. • Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu. Signs that the asthma is probably worsening include: • Increasing difficulty in breathing, which measured by a device used to check how well your lungs are working (peak flow meter). • The need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often.

Causes

• It is not clear why some people develop asthma and others do not, but it is likely due to a combination of environmental and genetic (genetic) factors. Asthma triggers Exposure to various irritants and substances that cause sensitivity (allergens) can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers vary from person to person and can include: • Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. • Respiratory infections, such as the common cold • Physical activity.
• • Certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat. • Sulfites and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes. • Stress and strong emotions.

Risk factors

• • Having a blood relative with asthma, such as a parent or sibling. • Having another allergic condition, such as atopic dermatitis which causes red, itchy skin or hay fever which causes a runny nose, congestion and itchy eyes. • Being a smoker. • Being overweight. • Exposure to occupational stimuli, such as chemicals used in agriculture, hairdressing, and manufacturing. • Exposure to exhaust fumes or other types of pollution.

Complications

• • Signs and symptoms that interfere with sleep and other work. • Permanent narrowing of the tubes that carry air to and from the lungs (bronchial tubes), affecting how well to breathe. • Emergency room visits and hospitalizations for severe asthma attacks. • Side effects from long-term use of some medications used to stabilise severe asthma. • Sick days from work or school during asthma attacks.

Prevention

• Although there is no way to prevent asthma, you and your doctor can design a step-by-step plan to live with your condition and prevent asthma attacks.
• • Follow your doctor’s instructions on taking your asthma medications. Let them know if you notice that you’re using a quick relief inhaler more often. • Watch your breathing. You may learn to recognize warning signs of an impending attack, such as a mild cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath. • Be aware of the increased use of rapid-acting inhalers. If you find yourself relying on a quick-acting inhaler, such as albuterol, your asthma is not under control. Check with your doctor about adjusting your treatment. • Take your medication as prescribed. Don't change your medications without first talking to your doctor, even if your asthma seems to be improving. It's a good idea to bring your medications with you to every doctor visit. Your doctor can make sure you are using your medications correctly and taking the right dose. • Recognize and treat attacks early. If you act quickly, you'll be less likely to have a severe attack. You also won't need as much medication to control your symptoms.

Extra Information

For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a
major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a
life-threatening asthma attack.
Asthma is an ongoing condition that needs regular monitoring and
treatment. Taking control of your treatment can make you feel more
in control of your life.

This article is done by Teryaq.info team with the help of
1- https://mayoclinic.com
2- https://www.webmd.com