Asthma Treatment

Description

Introduction

Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways that carry the air to lungs are inflamed and narrowed. Inflamed airways are very sensitive and they tend to react to things in environment called triggers such as the substances that are inhaled.

Asthma could be allergic or non allergic. Allergic asthma is an auto immune disease. Allergic asthma is a chronic allergic condition of the lungs. In people with allergic asthma, breathing difficulties such as wheezing, chest tightness and coughing can be triggered after inhaling something to which they are allergic, like tree pollen or mold. Changes in temperature, smoke, strong smells and other non-allergens can trigger symptoms as well. Asthma is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and by using pulmonary function tests where a computer measures airway function.

Causes

The asthmatic attack varies from person to person. But the main reasons of asthmatic attack are:

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

Sulfites 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

When asthmatic attack occurs a person may suffer from any of the below mentioned 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.