ASTHMA
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath and it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.Asthma can't be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Because asthma often changes over time.
Symptoms
· Shortness of breath
· Chest tightness or pain
· Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
· A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling (wheezing 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
· Increasing difficulty breathing
· The need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often
· Exercise-induced asthma
· Occupational asthma
· Allergy-induced asthma
Causes
Exposure to various irritants and substances that trigger allergies (allergens) can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers are different from person to person and can include:
Airborne substances, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste
Respiratory infections, such as the common cold
Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma)
Cold air
Air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke
Certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve)
Strong emotions and stress
Sulfides and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer and wine
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat
Risk factors:
Having a blood relative (such as a parent or sibling) with asthma
Having another allergic condition, such as atopic dermatitis or allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Being overweight
Being a smoker
Exposure to secondhand smoke
Exposure to exhaust fumes or other types of pollution
Exposure to occupational triggers, such as chemicals used in farming, hairdressing and manufacturing
Complications
Signs and symptoms that interfere with sleep, work or recreational activities
Sick days from work or school during asthma flare-ups
Permanent narrowing of the bronchial tubes (airway remodeling) that affects how well you can breathe
Emergency room visits and hospitalizations for severe asthma attacks
Side effects from long-term use of some medications used to stabilize severe asthma
Prevention:-
Follow your asthma action plan
Get vaccinated for influenza and pneumonia.
Identify and avoid asthma triggers.
Monitor your breathing.
Identify and treat attacks early.
Take your medication as prescribed
Pay attention to increasing quick-relief inhaler use..