Asthma Asthma by Justina September 16, 2024 September 16, 2024 A+A- Reset 8 Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the lungs, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This makes breathing difficult and can impact daily activities. Severe cases of asthma can hinder talking or physical movement. Some medical professionals call it “bronchial asthma.” While it is a serious condition, it can be managed with proper treatment, reducing hospital visits and emergency room trips. What Happens During an Asthma Attack? An asthma attack occurs when the muscles around the airways tighten (bronchospasm), the airways become inflamed, and more mucus is produced. This combination makes breathing difficult and can interrupt daily activities. Symptoms of an asthma attack include: Severe wheezing Persistent coughing Fast breathing Chest pain or pressure Difficulty speaking or feeling panicked Pale, sweaty skin Blue-tinted lips or nails If untreated, the attack can worsen, and breathing may become so restricted that no air passes through. Seek emergency care immediately if symptoms intensify. Asthma Classification Doctors classify asthma into different levels based on how often symptoms occur: Mild Intermittent : Symptoms occur less than twice a week, and nighttime symptoms appear fewer than twice a month. Mild Persistent Symptoms happen more frequently, between 3-6 times a week, affecting daily activities. Moderate Persistent Daily symptoms occur, and nighttime episodes happen more than five times a month. Severe Persistent Continuous symptoms throughout the day and night, significantly impacting activities. Types of Asthma There are several forms of asthma: Adult-Onset : Occurs after age 40. Childhood : Symptoms vary and include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Allergic : Triggered by allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander. Exercise-Induced Happens during physical activity when airways constrict due to drier air intake. Eosinophilic : Severe type with high levels of white blood cells (eosinophils). Nonallergic : Triggered by weather changes, stress, or illness. Status Asthmaticus: Persistent asthma attacks that don’t respond to treatment. Occupational : Caused by exposure to irritants like chemicals or dust in the workplace. Nocturnal : Symptoms worsen during sleep. Aspirin-Induced : Triggered by aspirin consumption. Causes and Triggers Symptoms flare up due to various triggers, including: Respiratory infections like colds or the flu Allergens like mold, pollen, or dust mites Irritants such as smoke or pollution Physical activity Stress or strong emotions Certain medications like aspirin Weather changes Symptoms Asthma occurs when the bronchial tubes become inflamed, and sticky mucus builds up inside the airways. Common symptoms arise when the airways become narrowed or blocked, leading to breathing difficulties. Key signs include: Airway Blockage: Muscles around the airways tighten, restricting airflow. Inflammation: Swollen and irritated airways in the lungs, which can cause long-term damage if not treated. Sensitive Airways: Asthma sufferers have overreactive airways that tighten due to minor triggers. Typical asthma symptoms: Coughing, often during the night or early morning Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing) Shortness of breath Chest tightness or pain Sleep disturbances due to breathing issues Not everyone with this chronic condition will experience these symptoms the same way. Some may have mild attacks, while others experience severe episodes. Asthma symptoms can occur daily or during specific activities like exercise or colds. Early Signs of an Asthma Attack Mild asthma attacks are common and usually resolve within a few hours. However, severe attacks are less frequent but require immediate medical attention. Recognizing even mild symptoms early can help prevent more serious episodes. Seek medical attention if you experience: Rapid breathing Pale or bluish lips, nails, or face Difficulty walking, talking, or breathing No improvement after medication Risk Factors Several factors may increase the risk of asthma: Genetics, especially if a parent has asthma Environmental exposures during childhood Obesity Gender (boys are more likely to have asthma as children, while women have a higher risk in adulthood) Certain job environments Other conditions like allergies or lung infections Women and Asthma For women, factors like pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and menopause can influence asthma symptoms. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen levels, may cause airway inflammation, affecting breathing. Pregnant women with asthma must manage their condition to avoid complications. Asthma Diagnosis If asthma is suspected, a doctor will review your medical history and perform lung function tests such as: Spirometry: Measures airflow out of the lungs. Peak Flow Test: Tracks how well air moves out of the lungs. Methacholine Challenge: Tests airway sensitivity. Nitric Oxide Test: Detects inflammation in the airways. Additional tests may include allergy screenings, chest X-rays, or CT scans to rule out other conditions. Treatments Asthma treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms and prevent attacks. Common treatments include: Inhaled Corticosteroids: Reduce airway inflammation for long-term control. Leukotriene Modifiers: Block chemicals that trigger asthma symptoms. Short-acting Beta-Agonists: Rescue inhalers used for quick relief during attacks. Anticholinergics: Prevent muscle tightening around the airways. Long-acting Beta-Agonists: Help relax muscles around the airways, often combined with inhaled corticosteroids. For severe cases, biologic therapies or oral corticosteroids may be recommended. Prevention To prevent asthma flare-ups, follow these strategies: Avoid known triggers. Take medications as prescribed. Track symptoms and use a peak flow meter. Get vaccinations to prevent respiratory infections. Follow an asthma action plan to manage worsening symptoms. Living with Asthma Managing asthma daily involves: Identifying triggers and avoiding them. Following your medication plan consistently. Creating a personalized asthma action plan. Making healthy lifestyle choices like regular exercise, weight management, and quitting smoking. With proper care, asthma can be controlled, allowing you to live a full, active life. Although asthma is a lifelong condition, it can be managed effectively by avoiding triggers, taking prescribed medications, and having a solid action plan in place. By working with your doctor and following a treatment plan, you can reduce the impact of asthma on your daily life. Sources Partners Healthcare Cleveland Clinic: Alternative therapies Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Australian Government Department of Health American Lung Association The Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America Murray, J., Nadel, J.: Textbook of Respiratory Medicine (Third Edition, 2000). Rose, B.D.: UpToDate, 2005. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute CDC MedlinePlus Asthma and Allergy Network Environmental Protection Agency Medscape Mayo Clinic American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders: National Asthma Council Australia National Jewish Health: Information on inhaled and oral steroids. Palo Alto Medical Foundation 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestLinkedinEmail Justina previous post Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) next post Diabetes mellitus
