Asthma is a very common condition. There are 300 million people worldwide suffering from asthma, especially in the developed countries. There is always an asthma patient around you.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a condition characterised by sensitive airways or the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. Symptoms occur when the muscles around the airways tighten and the lining of the airways swells, often producing extra mucus. This means there is less space for air to enter and leave the lungs, causing mild to severe breathing difficulties.1 Today, with proper care, people with asthma can control their symptoms which help lead them to healthy, active lives.1
How do you recognise asthma?
Asthma causes a dry, irritating cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. Symptoms are worse particularly at night, in the early morning, and following exercise or activity.1 Asthma can be triggered by:1
- Colds and flu
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
- Exercise or activity
- Inhaled allergens such as pollens, molds, animal hair and dust mites
- Dust and air pollution
- Changes in temperature and weather
- Certain medications (e.g. aspirin)
- Chemicals and strong smells (e.g. perfumes and paint)
- Laughter or stress
Every person's asthma and triggers are different.1 If you suffer from asthma, it pays to be aware of what triggers your symptoms in order to avoid attack triggers.
What causes asthma in the first place?
Asthma's underlying causes are not yet completely understood, but certain factors may put you at a higher risk of developing asthma.
- Family history and environment
Asthma can begin at any age and many sufferers have a family history of asthma or allergies. Unborn babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy and children exposed to smoke in early childhood have a higher risk of developing childhood asthma.1
- Occupational asthma
Some substances that you might be exposed to at work can put you at higher risk of developing asthma. Industries which pose a significant risk include pharmaceuticals, bakeries, carpentry, electronics, laboratories and any job involving latex gloves.2
Occupational asthma can vary in intensity, and it sometimes disappears after the sufferer leaves the job. If you think you are at risk of, or may have already developed asthma at work, talk to your employer and your doctor about avoiding the triggers and the right treatment.2
- Air pollution
Smog and pollution particles can trigger attacks in some people who already suffer from asthma and may play a part in causing asthma in some people.1 In addition, air pollution makes asthmatics more sensitive to everyday allergens like mould and dust mites. Air pollution found close to the earth's surface, also known as high ozone levels, can also be a problem for asthmatics, particularly during the summer.1
Is asthma curable?
Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled so that you are able to carry out your daily activities without symptoms. Controlling asthma involves:1
- Taking asthma medications as directed
- Keeping track of asthma symptoms
- Staying active and healthy
- Identifying triggers and avoiding them whenever possible
- Having a written asthma action plan
- Visiting the doctor regularly
Research suggests that breathing exercises may help people with mild asthma to reduce their use of inhalers and improve their quality of life. Breathing exercises may increase the flexibility of the chest wall and relax muscles associated with the respiratory system.1
Resources
- Asthma and Me. A Guide to Asthma. Asthma UK. 2013.
- Occupational Asthma. Asthma UK. Visited 28 March 2014.