Asthma is characterized as a chronic disease and an inflammatory disorder associated with the airways. The inflammation occurs when sticky substances inside the airway tubes hinder the airflow, making breathing tough. Constant swelling of the airways leads to other severe health complications such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.
What Causes Asthma:
The inflammation narrows the airways that prevent air to pass through them. There are too many factors associated with asthma outbreak. Obesity increases the chance of developing asthma. Smoking during the pregnancy can damage a baby’s lung that leads to asthma. Some of the other factors that can cause an asthma attack are:
- Foods containing sulphites
- Weather conditions
- Airway and chest infections
- Airborne irritants
- Painkillers such as aspirin
- Eczema, food allergy or hay fever.
Impact of the disease goes severe if an asthmatic person comes into the contact with cigarette smoke and chemical fumes.
What are the Primary Symptoms of Asthma?
It’s very tough to spot early signs of asthma. Symptoms become visible only when time passes. The symptoms of asthma are so serious that patients fail to accomplish even their normal activities. The following are early signs and symptoms of asthma:
- Feeling tired after workout
- Frequent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing or wheezing attacks
- Sudden decreases or changes in lung functions
Some of the asthma symptoms are life-threatening, thus need immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Asthma:
Doctors conduct a number of clinical tests to diagnose the symptoms of asthma. They control the airway swelling to clear the congested air passage. A breathing test, blood test and a chest X-ray test is also done to diagnose the disease. Doctors also suggest certain lifestyle changes and scheduled medication such as Singulair to treat the disease. It’s however important to consult your doctor before starting the medication to inform about the previous medical history if any.