Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow, swell and produce extra mucus leading to a difficulty in breathing. It can trigger cough, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Asthma can be a major setback for many people as it interferes with daily activities and can also lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. In children, it is one of the main reasons to miss school. It is a psychosomatic disorder – triggered as much by allergens as by dysfunctional relationships and stress. To treat asthma effectively, you need to treat its root cause.
Symptoms
Symptoms of asthma vary from person to person. Some of the common signs and symptoms of asthma are:
- Coughing, especially at night
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness, pain or pressure
Causes
It is a well-known fact that certain environmental factors and a strong family history may cause asthma. The following triggers may put you at risk:
- Respiratory infections such as common cold
- Physical activity (asthma triggered by it is known as exercise-induced asthma)
- Airborne substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste
- Air pollutants and irritants such as smoke
- Certain medications
- Stress
Prevention
Self-care and taking sensible preventative measures can reduce the risk of asthma symptoms and the asthma getting worse. Some of the things you can do to help keep your asthma under control are described below:
- Minimise the use of carpets and wash linen regularly in hot water to get rid of dust mites.
- Pets, if any, should be bathed regularly and kept out of beds as their falling hair may aggravate your asthma symptoms.
- Blowing balloon increases your lung expansion capacity. Start with blowing 1-2 balloons a day and increase it gradually. This should be done only when you are symptom-free.
- If you are a smoker and have been diagnosed with asthma, you simply have to stop smoking. Smoke acts as an irritant and also decreases the efficacy of the medication you take. It may also put you at risk of COPD and other bronchial diseases.
- Even second-hand smoke has the same effect and so it is necessary for you to ensure that smokers in your friend and family circles do not light up in your presence.
- Stress, anxiety or any strong emotion – they are popularly known to trigger the symptoms of asthma in adults, children, and women. Therefore, just remember this quote – ‘worry less, smile more’ and live healthier, happier, and asthma symptoms free life.
