and Health
Asthma is a long-term, chronic condition in which the airways in your lungs become inflamed and constricted, making it difficult to breathe. It is caused by an overreaction of your immune system to things that aggravate your airway lining. Asthma can lead to flare-ups, which can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma symptoms typically include wheezing, breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptoms may range from relatively mild attacks, to more severe ones that can include difficulty talking and difficulty walking. Symptoms can worsen in response to triggers, such as allergens, cold air, exercise, smoke and irritants.
Asthma Treatment
Treatment for asthma usually consists of avoiding triggers, which can include allergens, avoidance of smoke and other airborne irritants, and the use of inhaled medications. Inhaled medications can be used to treat mild or moderate asthma symptoms, while more severe cases may require corticosteroids to help control inflammation. If a person has persistent, severe asthma symptoms, they may need an asthma action plan to help them manage their condition.
Asthma Prevention and Health
It is possible to reduce the risk for developing asthma, as well as managing existing asthma. Prevention includes limiting exposure to triggers, such as cat and dust mites, dust, pollen, and smoke; keeping the home clean and dust-free; washing bedding in hot water; and getting adequate exercise. It is also important for people with asthma to get regular check-ups with their doctor and to keep an Asthma Action Plan handy. It is important for people with asthma to take their prescribed medications and follow their doctor’s advice to prevent asthma attacks.
Keywords: Asthma, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, Health, Inhaled Medications, Corticosteroids, Asthma Action Plan, Triggers, Allergens, Smoke, Irritants.