Common Symptoms
Asthma is a specific and rather severe condition that is determined by airways swelling, narrowing, and sometimes producing extra mucus. Some patients see this disease as a minor nuisance, but others have more serious symptoms and deal with a major issue that can lead to life-threatening asthma attacks and interfere with daily life. The common signs of asthma include trouble sleeping because of wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, and wheezing when exhaling (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2020). All these symptoms may become worse due to respiratory viruses like the flu.
Types of Asthma
It is possible to distinguish several types of asthma according to the circumstances of this condition. First, there is exercise-induced asthma that can worsen if the physical exertion is sudden or the air is dry and cold (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2020). Second, workplace irritants like dust, gases, and chemical fumes may trigger occupational asthma. Finally, allergy-induced asthma can appear because of some airborne substances, including pet dander, cockroach waste, mold spores, and pollen.
Etiology
As mentioned above, asthma signs and symptoms can be caused by exposure to a number of different substances and irritants that trigger allergies. Such causes may vary significantly and typically include gastroesophageal reflux disease, preservatives and sulfites added to beverages and food, stress or strong emotions, and specific medications (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2020). Moreover, air pollutants or cold temperature, physical activity, respiratory infections, and airborne allergens are also added to this list and may be considered the most common causes.
Treatment
Unfortunately, asthma cannot be cured completely, but it does not mean that nothing may be done to ease the situation. Proper treatment proposed by a medic can control the signs and make everyday activities more comfortable. Typically, each patient, together with his or her doctor or nurse, creates an individual plan based on the symptoms, type of asthma, and other circumstances. Moreover, a special device called an inhaler lets a person breathe in particular medicine and makes the condition more manageable.
Reference
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020). Asthma. Mayo Clinic. Web.