It’s not clear what causes asthma or why some people have inflamed and narrow airways and others don’t. It is, however, believed that genetics and allergies play a role. Asthma is a serious and potentially dangerous condition that affects about 25 million Americans. Although there is no known cure, asthma can be managed, Moreover, with proper treatment, you can live a productive life. In this post, we answer the common questions we get.

What is Asthma?

Asthma occurs when the airways get inflamed and narrow making breathing difficult. Wheezing, shortness breath and coughing are common asthma symptoms and sometimes these symptoms can make it hard to talk.

Asthma is classified based on its symptoms and it can either be intermittent or persistent. Intermittent asthma is mild and the symptoms can occur less than twice a week and have few asthma attacks.
Persistent asthma, on the other hand, is severe with the symptoms occurring more than six times a week and have recurring asthma attacks.

Asthma Vs. Allergies?

Asthma and allergies are not the same but are close-related. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to substances that are not harmless. Plus, they affect different parts of the body including the lungs.
Lung allergies manifest themselves as asthma, but it is possible to have asthma without being allergic to pollen or other substances.

Who Gets Asthma?

Asthma can attack anyone at any age. However, the first symptoms in children appear between the ages of six and 10. Furthermore, women above 20 years are also at risk of developing asthma.

What Causes Asthma?

As aforesaid, asthma has no specific cause and it occurs differently in everyone. However, genetics and the environment are believed to be the cause of the narrowing of the airways.
Moreover, several factors can increase your risk of asthma such as obesity, smoking, family history, allergies, exposure to chemicals and fumes.Asthma medications come in two forms quick-relief that control the asthmatic attack symptoms and long-term medication which reduces the severity of the symptoms.

Take Away

Asthma is a chronic lung inflammation whose cause is unknown and can affect everyone regardless of age. Although there is no known cure, asthma is manageable with medication and a changed lifestyle.

Remember asthmatic attacks occur when you are exposed to triggers, so avoid them. Plus, pay attention to the early warning signs of an asthma attack. If an attack occurs, they are sure to visit an emergency room near 79605.