Asthma: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Asthma - A chronic airway condition causing wheeze, cough and breathlessness that comes and goes with triggers.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways of the lungs become inflamed and sensitive. When triggered, the airway muscles tighten, the lining swells and extra mucus forms, making it hard to breathe. Symptoms vary from day to day and can flare into attacks. Asthma affects children and adults and, with the right inhaler plan, most people can live without frequent symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Family history of asthma, eczema or hay fever
- Allergens: dust mites, pollen, pets, mould
- Tobacco smoke and air pollution
- Respiratory infections
- Cold air and exercise
- Some medicines such as aspirin or NSAIDs in sensitive people
Signs and Symptoms
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Breathlessness
- Chest tightness
- Cough, often worse at night or early morning
Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Urgently
- Too breathless to speak in full sentences
- Reliever inhaler not helping or needed every few minutes
- Blue or grey lips
- Drowsiness or confusion during an attack - call emergency services
Diagnosis: Tests, Lab and Imaging
Diagnosis is based on history plus breathing tests: spirometry with reversibility, peak flow diary, and sometimes FeNO testing. Doctors also look for allergy triggers.
Treatment and Medicines
Most people use a preventer inhaler containing an inhaled corticosteroid, often combined with a long-acting reliever. A reliever such as salbutamol eases sudden symptoms. A written asthma action plan explains what to do as symptoms worsen. Correct inhaler technique, ideally with a spacer, makes a big difference.
Emergency
If you notice any red-flag sign, call 1122 (Pakistan), 911 (USA), 999 (UK) or 112 (Europe), or go to the nearest emergency department. See our emergency first aid guide.
Complications
Severe attacks, hospital admission, missed school or work, and rarely death, especially when preventers are not used.
Prevention
- Use your preventer every day as prescribed
- Avoid smoke and known triggers
- Get flu and recommended vaccines
- Review your inhaler technique each visit
Outlook and Follow-up
Asthma cannot be cured, but most people achieve good control. Needing a reliever more than twice a week is a sign to review treatment.
Patient Education
Write down your questions before appointments, bring a list of all medicines, and ask what results mean for you. Use our symptom checker to learn which departments relate to your symptoms. This Asthma guide is educational and reviewed against WHO, CDC and NIH sources by the ghkh.site editorial team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can asthma go away?
Childhood asthma sometimes improves with age, but it can return. Adults usually need ongoing treatment.
Is it safe to exercise with asthma?
Yes. Good control and a reliever before exercise, if advised, allow most people to be active.
What is the difference between preventer and reliever?
A preventer reduces airway inflammation over time; a reliever opens airways quickly during symptoms.
Sources
We summarise these sources in our own words. Mention of an organisation does not imply endorsement.
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