Studies - Asthma
OVERVIEW
Asthma is caused by a variety of symptoms that can worsen at any time and make breathing difficult. When someone living with asthma has symptoms, it means that the flow of air in and out of the lungs is being obstructed as it passes. This is happening due to the linings of the airways being inflamed, irritated, and swollen due to allergic and non-allergic triggers.
Allergic triggers can include: dust, animals, pollen, viral infections, and other pollutants. Nonallergic triggers include: smoke, exercise, cold air, fumes, and strong smells. If left untreated, the muscles surrounding the airways can become sensitive and narrow further, elevating symptoms, and causing a potential asthma attack. The cause of asthma is unknown, with no current cure. Fortunately, there are many things one can do to manage, and control symptoms. If you are suffering from asthma, speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about options that best suit your condition.
RELATED INFORMATION
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness or pain
Coughing
Wheezing
Note: Symptoms can be mild to severe, with asthma varying from person to person.
Genetics
Having other allergy conditions
Being overweight
Being a smoker
Exposure to second-hand smoke, exhaust fumes, or other pollutants
Exposure to occupational triggers including chemicals used in farming, hairdressing, and
manufacturing
Note: While asthma may develop alongside other issues, its initial cause is unknown.
Controller Medications
(to reduce inflammation in the airways)
i.e. Inhaled, oral and intravenous
corticosteroids
Reliever Medications
(to help relieve symptoms quickly)
i.e. Short & long-acting beta agonists
Vaccinations to avoid flare-ups from viruses
asthma
Asthma is a long-term condition where the airways in the lungs narrow and swell, producing extra mucus that impacts the flow of air in and out of the lungs. People living with asthma can have trouble breathing, triggering coughing, wheezing, as well as shortness of breath.
SOURCES