The symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Although the condition can occur at any age, it most often affects children. In fact, up to 10% of kids are affected by the condition.
The symptoms of asthma can vary from mild to severe. Patients with asthma report feeling short of breath during exertion, a recurrent feeling of chest tightness, and a cough. Some patients also experience intermittent episodes of non-productive coughing.
Bronchial asthma is a respiratory disorder that causes an increase in mucus production and swelling of the bronchioles. Its main cause is an allergic reaction to a substance or a combination of allergens. Bronchial asthma can be prevented with a few simple changes in lifestyle. For instance, avoid tobacco smoke and clean up your living space to reduce the amount of irritants in the air. If you are pregnant, try to stay away from household chemicals and other sources of irritants.
Children with bronchial asthma are usually diagnosed in adolescence. A history of smoking, exposure to indoor allergens, or exposure to cold air may indicate a risk for asthma. Asthma can be treated with a daily control medication, such as albuterol, or an inhaler.
If you are unsure of your risk of developing asthma, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can help you develop a personalized action plan to prevent attacks. However, it is important to remember that these measures do not cure the disease. Your doctor will prescribe medications to keep the symptoms in check. Also, learn how to manage flare-ups.
Although a diagnosis of bronchial asthma is usually made during childhood, some people develop the condition later in life. They may have a history of nasal polyps, asthma, or allergies. These conditions can be triggered by various allergens, including dust, cockroaches, and household chemicals. When you are suffering from bronchial asthma, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep.
People with bronchial asthma are most likely to complain of a cough at night. This cough is often dry. Coughing is a common symptom of bronchial asthma and a sign that your condition is becoming worse.
The most important symptom of asthma is shortness of breath. When the bronchioles are swollen, the mucous membranes can clog the bronchi, which leads to difficulty breathing.
People with cardiac asthma can experience similar symptoms to bronchial asthma, although they are caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs. Cardiac asthma is not as common as bronchial asthma.
Asthma can be life-threatening, so you should seek immediate medical treatment if you experience any of these symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and a lung function test. You can use a peak flow meter to detect attacks in advance.
Managing asthma requires ongoing care from a doctor and a multidisciplinary team. Medications are usually taken orally, but some people also require inhalers. Ideally, your healthcare provider will work with you to reduce your stress and to understand the underlying cause of your asthma.
