Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways. It makes breathing hard due to an exposure to irritant, viruses, exercise, emotional stress, etc. 

It narrows and swells the airways, producing more mucus. As you breathe out, there is a whistling sound, and triggers coughing. It can be either a minor or a major condition. If it is considered a major activity, it may lead to life threatening asthma attack

Symptoms: 

1. Shortness of breath 

2. Chest tightness or pain

3. Wheezing when exhaling, which is a common sign of asthma in children

4. Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing

5. Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu

Exercise-induced asthma :

Heavy workout can narrow the airways. Most of the times, exercise is the main trigger for asthma. There will be a feeling of chest tightness, cough, trouble breathing during aerobic workout. If you feel that it’s getting worse, see a doctor to track how you breath and choose the right activities. 

Airborne allergens (pollens, dust mites, mold spores, etc) :

It was proven that children with high levels of cockroach droppings in their homes were 4 times more likely to have childhood asthma than children with low levels. See an allergist that can help you find out the allergies and prevent inflammation/irritation at the beginning stage. Sometimes, food allergies such as eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, etc can cause life threatening reactions, namely anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is rare, and most people recover from it. But it’s still important to see a doctor and communicate with them about the certain medications required. 

Respiratory infections – common colds :

Sinusitis causes inflation in the mucus membranes that line your sinuses. It will make the membranes produce more mucus. If you have asthma and your sinuses are swollen/inflamed, your airways will narrow and cause asthma attacks. Prompt treatment for sinus infections can relieve asthma symptoms. 

Cold air :

When it’s winder, exercising outdoors can increase the risk of triggering asthma. 

 Certain medications :

• Aspirin and painkillers – 10-20% of people with asthma have sensitivity to aspirin and other pain relievers. [NSAIDs drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen] These drugs can can asthma attacks more severely, so people should know the components [labels] of the medications they take. 

• Beta blockers – included in eye drops; treat herat conditions, etc. Doctors usually try few doses for testing to determine whether you have an allergic reaction to these medications. 

Prevention: 

Constant monitoring = 

monitoring breathing can signal and warn the potential conditions you may fall in. As your lung function decreases, monitors notice any signs or symptoms that may cause a larger irritation. 

You will therefore be able to treat the asthma attacks earlier. When the peak flow measurements decrease, there will be an alert that warns the oncoming attack, when you can take medication as necessary. 

Vaccinated for influenza and pneumonia = 

Vaccinations can prevent any flue or pneumonia from irritating and worsening the lung condition. 

Use quick-relief inhaler use = 

Using inhalers relieve your condition right at the moment. However, you should note that doctoral treatments are necessary in this case.