Asthma

Asthma is defined as a chronic disease which affects the airways, which are the tubes which carry air in and out from the lungs. Under the influence of Asthma the inside walls of the airways are often swollen. Airways become very sensitive with inflammation and react very strongly to things that you may find irritating. When a reaction occurs, airways get narrower and the flow of air is much less through your lung tissue. This results in coughing, wheezing and trouble breathing.

When symptoms of Asthma worsen it is called an asthma attack, during an attack the muscles around the airways tighten up which makes the airways narrower and less air flows in, which makes it extremely difficult to breathe. Severe asthma attacks often leads to death.

Causes which lead to Asthma are:

Allergens:

• Mold
• Pollen from grass and trees
• Dust mites
• Cockroaches
• Animal dander

Irritants:

• Strong emotional expression and stress
• Strong odors from painting or cooking
• Scented products
• Changes in weather or cold air
• Air pollution
• Cigarette smoke

Some other factors which cause Asthma are:

• Infections
• Gastroesophageal - a reflux disease which causes heartburn
• Sulfites in food or beverages
• Aspirin and beta-blockers

Treatments available to cure Asthma are:

Consulting your doctor, and deciding which treatment suits you best. Try and avoid factors which irritate and enhance your condition. The intake of allergy medicines can reduce the occurrence of asthma attacks.

Medicines like quick relief medicines and long term control medicines:

Quick relief medicines: as the symptoms of asthma are seen, these medicines are taken. These medicines start effecting within minutes.

Long term control medicines: taken for a much longer duration. These medicines are taken everyday to prevent asthma attacks and symptoms. The effects of these medicines are seen after weeks of intake.

Remember: Asthma can be controlled but not cured.