Learn About Causes, Symptoms And Diagnosis of Asthma
Did you know that 1 in every 10 asthma patients all across the globe is in India? Extremely common among children as well as adults, asthma is a common lung condition that to date, has no cure. A non-communicable disease, asthma can be controlled and managed by means of multiple treatments, such as medicines and inhalers. To have a better understanding of asthma, let us learn more about its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammation and narrowing of the lung airways. Having long-term effects, asthma causes inconvenience early in the morning and during the night.
Asthma causes constriction in the airways, thereby preventing air from reaching the lungs, which, in turn, results in uncomfortable as well as sometimes dangerous symptoms.
Remember, a person who has asthma has it all the time. However, it only becomes concerning when something bothers the lungs. That being said, let us now shed light on the causes of asthma.
What Are the Causes of Asthma?
Exposure to asthma triggers can lead to an asthma attack. Note that asthma triggers can be different for different people. The exact cause of asthma may be unknown, however, it is clear that genetic as well as environmental factors play a significant role in asthma. Note that while some factors may be just causes, others may function as cause and trigger at the same time.
Below mentioned are some of the common causes & triggers of asthma:
- Outdoor air pollution
- Smoke from burning wood or grass
- Tobacco smoke
- Strong odor
- Chemical Fumes
- Dust mites
- Cockroach allergen
- Mold
- Infections like flu
- Extreme weather conditions
- Allergens such as ragweed, pollen, animal dander
By learning about your triggers, you will learn how to avoid them. When not being able to avoid your trigger due to any reason, you should learn to watch out for an asthma attack. You would experience a few symptoms indicating the onset of your asthma attack.
You May Like to Read: Necessity of Health Insurance for Asthma Patients
What Are the Symptoms of Asthma?
The symptoms of asthma include:
- Chest pain
- Wheezing when exhaling
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing attacks
- Trouble sleeping due to symptoms
While some of the asthma attacks may be highly concerning, you need to be aware of the fact that if your asthma symptoms become more frequent, you may find it more difficult to breathe or you need to use your quick-relief inhaler frequently, it may be indicating that your asthma is getting worse.
Remember, asthma can be life-threatening, therefore, it is better to seek emergency medical treatment if your condition is getting worse and no relief is found, even during minimal physical activity.
How Is Asthma Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will diagnose asthma by reviewing your symptoms, medical history as well as family history through a physical exam. During this physical exam, your provider will listen to your heart and lungs. Tests for breathing, blood and allergy, and chest x-rays may also be ordered by your healthcare provider. The results would declare whether you have asthma or any other condition behind your symptoms.
Take a Look At Health Insurance Plans for Asthma Patients
At Last
If you are an asthma patient or suspecting that you may have asthma, remember its control is in your hands. It is advisable that if you take any medicine, it should be as per your doctor’s prescription.
Practice being patient with yourself because, with asthma, it is the utmost need.
Also Check: How to Buy Health Insurance Policy Online? 6 Easy Steps to Follow
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
