Asthma is a common chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. It is marked by episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning. Asthma can affect individuals of any age, but it often starts during childhood.
The severity and frequency of asthma symptoms vary among individuals. Some people may experience symptoms only occasionally, while others might have more persistent and severe symptoms.
The main features and aspects of asthma include:
- Airway Inflammation: The airways in people with asthma are typically inflamed and swollen, making them sensitive to triggers.
- Airway Constriction: When exposed to certain triggers, the muscles around the airways tighten, further narrowing the airways and making it difficult to breathe.
- Airway Hyperresponsiveness: The airways of people with asthma are overly reactive and can constrict in response to a variety of triggers, such as allergens, cold air, exercise, or respiratory infections.
The triggers for asthma symptoms vary and can include:
- Allergens: Such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroach waste.
- Irritants in the air: Including smoke, pollution, fumes, or strong odors.
- Respiratory infections: Like the common cold or flu.
- Physical activity: Known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction or exercise-induced asthma.
- Cold air: Or changes in weather.
- Stress and strong emotions.
Management of asthma involves:
- Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding the factors that trigger asthma symptoms is an essential part of managing the condition.
- Medications: These typically include quick-relief (rescue) inhalers for immediate symptom management and long-term control medications to reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms.
- Monitoring: Keeping track of symptoms and lung function (often with a peak flow meter) helps to manage the condition effectively.
- Action Plan: Having an asthma action plan, developed in consultation with a healthcare provider, guides the management of the condition, including how to respond to worsening symptoms.
There is no cure for asthma, but with proper treatment and management, most people with asthma can live normal, active lives. In some children, asthma symptoms may decrease or disappear entirely as they get older, although the condition can return in adulthood.