Asthma

Asthma is another chronic condition where patients suffer from shortness of breath due to blocked airways. Pollution, infections, and allergies can trigger asthma. Asthma can cause coughing. It is an inflammation of the airways, which makes it harder to breathe. Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, and a persistent cough. These can be worse at night. Symptoms can vary from person to person. Family history is one of the factors contributing to asthma. People with allergic conditions may develop asthma. There are different types of asthma. Allergic asthma – it is asthma triggered by allergens like food, dust, pollen, pet dander, and mould. Non-allergic asthma – It is not induced by allergens. Irritants may be perfumes, cigarette smoke, air pollution, and viral illnesses. Occupational asthma - this type of asthma occurs in the workplace. Triggers include gases, industrial chemicals, rubber latex, and dyes. Exercise induced asthma – this type of asthma occurs after starting exercise. This subsides after 10 to 15 minutes. Aspirin-induced asthma – this type of asthma is triggered by taking aspirin or NSAIDs. Nocturnal asthma – In this type of asthma, symptoms worsen at night. Triggers may be dust mites, heartburn, and pet dander. Cough variant asthma: – In this type of asthma, wheezing and shortness of breath are absent. A persistent dry cough will trigger asthma.

Asthma is classified as,

Intermittent: Symptoms are mild and last a couple of days in a week.

Mildly persistent: Symptoms occur more than twice in a week, up to four times per month.

Moderately persistent: Symptoms may occur daily but not nightly.

Severe persistent: In this case, symptoms occur every day and every night.

Treatments include inhalers and bronchodilators. Steroids can also help some patients, depending upon the condition. For chronic conditions, doctors may also prescribe anti-inflammatories, anti-cholinergics, and long acting bronchodilators. People should be aware of asthma, including treatment options, avoiding triggers, and managing it at home.