Asthma: Types, symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors

February 14, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in Diseases, Lung disease

Free vector comparison of healthy lung and asthmatic lung

Asthma, also called bronchial asthma, is a disease that affects your lungs. It is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and may produce extra mucus.

For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.

It is typically managed through a combination of medication, avoidance of triggers, and lifestyle modifications. Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Types

There are several types of asthma, including:

  1. Allergic asthma: This is the most common type of asthma, triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
  2. Non-allergic asthma: This type of asthma is triggered by irritants such as cold air, smoke, or exercise, rather than allergens.
  3. Exercise-induced asthma: This is a type of asthma that is triggered by physical activity or exercise.
  4. Occupational asthma: This type of asthma is triggered by exposure to certain irritants or chemicals in the workplace.
  5. Cough-variant asthma: This is a type of asthma in which the primary symptom is a persistent cough, rather than the more typical wheezing or shortness of breath.
  6. Steroid-resistant asthma: This is a less common type of asthma in which the person’s symptoms do not improve with standard asthma medications such as inhaled corticosteroids.

It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to properly diagnose and manage the specific type of asthma a person may have.

Symptoms

Symptoms of asthma can vary in frequency and intensity, and may include:

  • Wheezing: a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing
  • Shortness of breath: feeling out of breath or unable to catch your breath
  • Chest tightness: a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest
  • Coughing: especially at night or early in the morning
  • Difficulty breathing: experiencing breathing problems that make it hard to talk, walk or perform other activities
  • Rapid breathing: feeling like you’re breathing fast, even when at rest
  • Fatigue: feeling tired or weak because of the extra effort required to breathe.

It’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, as untreated asthma can lead to serious complications.

Causes

The exact causes of asthma are not yet fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Some common triggers that can cause asthma symptoms or an asthma attack include:

  • Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander
  • Respiratory infections such as colds, flu, and pneumonia
  • Irritants such as air pollution, smoke, and strong odors
  • Physical activity or exercise
  • Cold air or changes in weather
  • Emotional stress
  • Certain medications, such as aspirin or beta-blockers

Additionally, having a family history of asthma or allergies, being exposed to secondhand smoke, and having a history of respiratory infections or premature birth can increase the risk of developing asthma.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing asthma. These include:

  1. Age: Asthma can develop at any age, but it often starts in childhood.
  2. Family history: Having a parent or sibling with asthma or allergies increases the risk of developing asthma.
  3. Gender: Boys are more likely than girls to develop asthma in childhood, but in adulthood, asthma is more common in women than men.
  4. Allergies: People with allergies, such as hay fever or eczema, are more likely to develop asthma.
  5. Exposure to irritants: Exposure to certain irritants, such as air pollution, tobacco smoke, and workplace chemicals, can increase the risk of developing asthma.
  6. Respiratory infections: Having a history of certain respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, can increase the risk of developing asthma.
  7. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing asthma.
  8. Pregnancy: Some studies suggest that a mother’s exposure to certain environmental factors during pregnancy may increase the child’s risk of developing asthma.

It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop asthma.

Complications

If asthma is not properly managed, it can lead to a number of complications, including:

  • Severe asthma attacks: These can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Long-term, poorly managed asthma can lead to COPD, a group of lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe.
  • Pneumonia: People with asthma are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs.
  • Depression and anxiety: Asthma can have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life and lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.
  • Sleep disturbances: Asthma symptoms, such as coughing and wheezing, can disrupt sleep and lead to daytime fatigue.
  • Decreased lung function: Over time, uncontrolled asthma can lead to a decrease in lung function, making it harder to breathe.

Overall

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergens, irritants, exercise, and respiratory infections.

Your healthcare provider can help you manage symptoms, learn your triggers and prevent or manage attacks.

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