Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing inflammation and narrowing within the lungs that limits airflow.
Individuals with asthma may experience:
– Chest tightness
– Wheezing
– Shortness of breath
– Coughing
– Increased mucus production
An asthma attack occurs when these symptoms intensify, potentially becoming severe. Attacks can start suddenly and vary in intensity from mild to life-threatening.
In severe cases, swelling in the airways may obstruct the flow of oxygen to the lungs, preventing it from entering the bloodstream and reaching vital organs.
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This requires immediate medical attention.
A doctor can prescribe appropriate treatments and provide guidance on effectively managing asthma symptoms.
Causes and Triggers
The exact causes of asthma remain unclear, but both genetic and environmental factors appear to play significant roles.
Some factors, such as allergen sensitization, can act as both causes and triggers. Here are additional causes and triggers:
Pregnancy
A 2020 study suggests that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of the fetus developing asthma later in life.
Additionally, some individuals may experience worsening asthma symptoms during pregnancy.
Obesity
A 2018 study indicates that obesity is both a risk factor and a modifier of asthma in both children and adults.
Those with obesity may face more frequent and severe symptoms, reduced quality of life, and less effective response to medication.
Allergies
Allergies occur when the body becomes sensitized to specific substances, leading to allergic reactions upon exposure.
Allergic asthma is the most common form, where inhalation of allergens triggers asthma symptoms.
Smoking Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes can trigger asthma symptoms, and secondhand smoke can damage the lungs, reducing treatment efficacy and airflow.
Environmental Factors
Air pollution, both indoors and outdoors, can influence the development and exacerbation of asthma.
Common indoor allergens include:
– Mold
– Dust
– Animal hair and dander
– Fumes from cleaning products and paints
– Cockroaches
– Feathers
Outdoor triggers include:
– Pollen
– Air pollution from traffic and other sources
– Ground-level ozone
Stress
Stress and various emotions, including joy, anger, excitement, laughter, and crying, can trigger asthma symptoms.
There is some evidence suggesting a link between asthma and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Long-term stress may also lead to epigenetic changes contributing to chronic asthma.
Genetic Factors
Genetics may influence asthma development.
Individuals with one or both parents who have asthma are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.
Hormonal Factors
Asthma prevalence varies between genders, with approximately 6.1% of males and 9.8% of females affected.
Symptoms can fluctuate with hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or menopause.
For instance, asthma symptoms might worsen during menstruation due to hormonal fluctuations, a condition known as perimenstrual asthma.
Hormonal changes during menopause can either worsen or improve asthma symptoms, and hormonal activity may also impact immune responses, potentially increasing airway hypersensitivity.
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