What is Asthama?
Asthma, also known as Bronchial Asthma, is a Lung condition which causes breathing difficulties. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing.
Shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing are symptoms of Asthma. Mild, severe, and occasionally
even life-threatening symptoms are possible.
Symptoms of Asthma :
Asthma symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency. Some people experience symptoms only during asthma attacks or when exposed to triggers, while others may have persistent symptoms. Triggers for asthma can include allergens
(such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander), respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, smoke, and strong odors.
Common symptoms of Asthma include :
Wheezing : A high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing, often more noticeable when exhaling.
Shortness of Breath : Difficulty in breathing or not getting enough air, which can range from mild to severe.
Coughing : A persistent cough that may be worse at night or early in the morning. It may generate mucous or be dry.
Chest Tightness : A sensation of tightness, pressure, or pain in the chest.
Increased Mucus Production : The airways may produce more mucus than usual, which can contribute to coughing and difficulty breathing.
Fatigue : Difficulty breathing can make it hard to perform daily activities, leading to tiredness.
If you suspect you have asthma or if your symptoms worsen, it's important to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis
and treatment.
What is an Asthma attack?
Wheezing is the sound your airways produce when you exhale, and it occurs as your airways get more constricted.
Another term for an Asthma attack is called flare-up or an exacerbation and it's the phrase used to describe
uncontrolled Asthma.
During an Asthma attack, three things can happen :
Bronchospasm : The muscles around the airways contract and breathing becomes more difficult as they constrict. Airways that are narrowed cannot allow air to pass freely.
Inflammation : The lining of your airways becomes swollen. Less air may enter or exit your lungs due to swollen airways.
Mucus production : The attack causes your body to produce extra mucus. This thick mucus clogs airways.
Types of Asthma :
Each type of asthma may require different management strategies, and a healthcare professional can help diagnose and tailor treatment to an individual's specific needs. There are several types of asthma, each with different triggers, symptoms, and management approaches.
The main types include :
1. Allergic Asthma : This is the most common type of asthma, triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, or certain foods. It often occurs alongside other allergic conditions like hay fever or eczema.
2. Non-Allergic Asthma : This type is not triggered by allergens. Instead, it may be triggered by factors such as stress, exercise, cold air, infections, or irritants like smoke or strong odors. The exact cause of non-allergic asthma is less
understood.
3. Cough-Variant Asthma : This form of asthma is characterized mainly by a persistent cough, often without the other typical asthma symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath. It can be triggered by the same factors as other types of
asthma.
5. Occupational Asthma : This type is triggered by exposure to irritants in the workplace, such as chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes. It can develop after repeated exposure over time or suddenly after a high level of exposure.
6. Nocturnal Asthma : Asthma symptoms that worsen at night are classified as nocturnal asthma. It can be triggered by allergens in the bedroom, cooler air, or a reclined sleeping position, among other factors.
7. Childhood Asthma : Asthma that begins in childhood is sometimes considered a distinct type due to its onset during a specific developmental period. Children may outgrow asthma, but some continue to experience symptoms into
adulthood.
8. Adult-Onset Asthma : Asthma that begins in adulthood, sometimes after the age of 20, can be more persistent and may not be associated with allergies as frequently as childhood asthma.
Treatment for Asthma:
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed, which can lead to difficulty breathing. The treatment for asthma typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and monitoring. The specific treatment plan depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Common treatments :
A. Quick-Relief Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) : These bronchodilators, such as albuterol, provide quick relief from asthma symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the airways. They are often used during an asthma attack or before exercise.
B. Long-Term Control Medications :
Inhaled corticosteroids : These anti-inflammatory medications, like fluticasone and budesonide, are the most common long-term control medications for asthma. They aid in symptom prevention and the reduction of airway inflammation.
Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) : These bronchodilators, such as salmeterol and formoterol, are used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids to help control asthma symptoms.
Leukotriene modifiers : These oral medications, like montelukast, help reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
Theophylline : An oral medication that helps relax the muscles around the airways, making breathing easier.
Biologics : For severe asthma, medications like omalizumab, mepolizumab, or dupilumab may be used. These are injectable medications that target specific pathways in the immune system.
2. Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Avoid Triggers : Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers, such as allergens, smoke, pollution, and cold air, can help prevent symptoms.
Allergy Management : If allergies contribute to asthma, managing them with medications or immunotherapy can help.
Regular Exercise : While exercise can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms, staying active with proper precautions and management can improve overall lung function and health.
Smoking Cessation : Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as it can worsen asthma symptoms.
3. Emergency Treatment
In cases of severe asthma attacks, emergency treatment may be necessary, which can include high doses of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, or hospitalization.