Asthma
- Definition:
- Causes:
- Symptoms:
- Diagnosis:
- Treatment:
- Prevention:
- Complications:
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, causing recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
Asthma can be caused by various factors including genetics, environmental triggers (like allergens, pollution, or tobacco smoke), respiratory infections, and certain medications.
Common symptoms of asthma include wheezing (a whistling sound during breathing), coughing (particularly at night or early in the morning), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and difficulty in performing physical activities.
Asthma is diagnosed through a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, lung function tests (such as spirometry), and allergy testing.
The treatment of asthma typically involves a combination of long-term control medications (like inhaled corticosteroids) to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms, as well as quick-relief medications (such as bronchodilators) to provide immediate relief during asthma attacks.
Asthma attacks can be prevented by identifying and avoiding triggers, maintaining good air quality at home, practicing proper hygiene, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and following the prescribed asthma management plan.
Severe and uncontrolled asthma can lead to frequent hospitalizations, reduced lung function, decreased quality of life, and potentially life-threatening asthma attacks.