Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is the result of lung inflammation. Patients with asthma have trouble breathing because their airways have narrowed and are producing more mucus than usual. Airways narrow as a result of airway muscle inflammation and tightness. It could be a small issue for some, a serious chronic sickness for others. Asthma cannot be treated in chronic situations; however, the symptoms and hazards can be somewhat managed. An asthma episode can be brought on by allergies, exposure to smoke, dust, or fumes, changes in the weather, and many other things.

What are the causes of asthma?

Asthma's main contributing factors are:

Family history: Asthma is more likely to develop in those who have a history of the disease in their families.
Allergies: Asthma can be brought on by an allergic reaction to things like pollen grains, dust, and other factors.
Infections like those of the respiratory system.
Severe weather situations
Medications
Workout or demanding tasks
Cold air
Obesity

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Coughing and wheezing
Sleep disturbance
Throat clearing
Chest ache
Breathing difficulties brought on by shortness of breath

How is asthma diagnosed?

The doctor will ask whether there is a family history of instances comparable to yours, so inform them if you have any. Additionally, the doctor will do a physical examination while using a stethoscope to listen to your respiration. In order to rule out any potential allergic responses, your doctor might also ask you to undergo a skin test. Testing your breathing is done to see how well your lungs are working. You will be asked to blow into a spirometry instrument. These exams are referred to as pulmonary function tests (PFT). To confirm the presence of asthma, other examinations, such as imaging tests to look for lung structural abnormalities, sputum eosinophils, etc., are also performed.

What are the treatment options for asthma?