Asthma: Symptoms, Causes, Types, Treatment & Management
Asthma is a long-term condition that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways can become inflamed and narrowed, which can make it harder for air to move through them. Asthma symptoms may come and go and can become worse after exposure to certain triggers. Common asthma symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may become worse during respiratory infections, after exercise, with allergies, or in cold air. Although there is no cure for asthma, treatment and an individualized asthma action plan can help control symptoms and manage flare-ups. What Is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, which are the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. In people with asthma, the airways can become inflamed and narrowed. The muscles around the airways may also tighten, and the airways can produce more mucus. These changes can make breathing more difficult. Asthma symptoms do not always occur continuously. They may come and go over time or within the same day. Different people can have different symptoms and triggers, so asthma management is generally tailored to the individual. Types and Patterns of Asthma Asthma can occur in different patterns and may be associated with particular situations or triggers. Rather than treating these as completely separate diseases, healthcare professionals may describe asthma according to its pattern or the circumstances in which symptoms occur. Allergic Asthma Allergic asthma is associated with allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mold. Symptoms can become worse when a person is exposed to allergens that trigger their asthma. Exercise-Induced Asthma Some people develop asthma symptoms during or after physical activity. Exercise can trigger or worsen symptoms, although people with asthma may still be able to remain physically active when their condition is appropriately managed. Occupational Asthma Occupational asthma develops or becomes worse because of exposures in the workplace. Possible workplace triggers include dust, mold, chemicals, fumes, and other substances. Adult-Onset Asthma Some people do not develop noticeable asthma symptoms until adulthood. This is known as adult-onset asthma. The exact causes of asthma can differ from person to person. Symptoms of Asthma Common symptoms of asthma include: Asthma symptoms may follow certain patterns. They can start or become worse during viral infections such as a cold, after exercise, with allergies, or in cold air. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so these symptoms alone cannot confirm that someone has asthma. What Causes Asthma? The exact causes of asthma are not fully known and may differ between individuals. Researchers recognize that different factors can affect how the lungs develop and how the body responds to substances or infections. Asthma can begin during childhood, although some people do not develop noticeable symptoms until adulthood. It is important to distinguish causes from triggers. A trigger is something that sets off asthma symptoms or makes existing symptoms worse. A trigger does not necessarily mean that it caused the person to develop asthma. Common Asthma Triggers Asthma triggers vary from person to person. Common triggers include: Certain medicines, acid reflux, and weather conditions can also trigger symptoms in some people. Identifying personal triggers can help people work with a healthcare professional on an appropriate asthma management plan. What Is an Asthma Attack? An asthma attack, also called an asthma flare-up, occurs when asthma symptoms become worse. During an attack, the airways can become more narrowed and inflamed, making breathing more difficult. Warning signs can include worsening coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. An asthma action plan can explain how to recognize worsening symptoms, which medicines to use, and when medical care is needed. When Is Asthma an Emergency? A serious asthma attack can require urgent medical attention. Follow the person’s prescribed asthma action plan when symptoms become worse. Emergency care may be necessary when symptoms do not improve soon after using prescribed at-home medicine or when the asthma attack is serious. Severe breathing difficulty can require treatment in an emergency department. People with asthma should discuss their emergency instructions with a healthcare professional and keep their written asthma action plan available. How Is Asthma Diagnosed? Asthma diagnosis usually involves looking at symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. Healthcare professionals may also use lung-function tests to assess breathing. Spirometry is commonly used to measure how much air a person can breathe out and how quickly they can do so. Peak-flow measurements may also be used in some situations. Allergy testing or other tests may be considered when needed to identify contributing factors or investigate other possible causes of breathing symptoms. Because other conditions can cause coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties, symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than being assumed to be asthma. Asthma Treatment and Management Asthma treatment depends on factors such as the person’s symptoms, age, how serious the condition is, and how they respond to medicines. Treatment aims to control symptoms and reduce asthma attacks. Quick-Relief Medicines Quick-relief or reliever medicines can help ease symptoms during an asthma attack. Some reliever medicines work by opening narrowed airways so that air can flow more easily. People who use an inhaler should learn the correct technique because using an inhaler incorrectly can affect how well the medicine works. A healthcare professional can provide instructions based on the prescribed inhaler. Long-Term Control Medicines Some people need regular controller medicines to help prevent symptoms and asthma attacks. Inhaled corticosteroids are among the medicines used for long-term asthma control because they reduce inflammation in the airways. Other treatments may be prescribed depending on the person’s asthma and response to treatment. Medicines should be taken according to the treatment plan provided by a healthcare professional. How Can You Reduce Asthma Symptoms? Managing asthma involves understanding personal triggers, following the prescribed treatment plan, and monitoring symptoms. Helpful parts of asthma management may include: Some people may also use a peak-flow meter as part of their asthma action plan. Keeping a record of peak-flow readings and asthma