Basics
Although asthma typically starts in childhood, the chronic lung disease can affect people of all ages, report doctors at the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Of the more than 22 million people affected with the condition in the United States, nearly 6 million patients are children. The disease is characterized by Inflamed airway tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. When the airways become sensitive and swollen, they react to various substances that are breathed in. The reaction causes the muscles in the tubes to tighten and prevent air from flowing properly to the lungs. The swelling often worsens, further restricting the flow of air. Another piece of the chain reaction is the development of mucus, which creates an even smaller space for air to move through. Asthma symptoms develop each time this chain reaction is set in motion.
Symptoms
People with asthma vary in their reaction to different conditions. Symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness can be mild and dissipate in a short time without treatment. People with more severe cases must use asthma medications and inhalers to open the airways and breathe. When symptoms appear, it is called an asthma attack, flare-up or exacerbation. Symptoms must be treated immediately to avoid more serious complications. Untreated, a severe asthma attack must be treated as an emergency because it can lead to death. Most asthma sufferers take oral medications and carry an inhaler to treat flare-ups, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. A person with asthma must have access to an inhaler in case of an attack. Many people with asthma also must use the inhaler prior to exercising.
Triggers
Asthma sufferers must regulate their exposure to certain substances and avoid triggers that set off an asthma attack. Triggers vary from patient to patient. Some people must avoid stress and strong emotions that set off their asthma, while others find that their condition is exacerbated by exercise or during a menstrual cycle. As patients work with their doctors, they learn the triggers to avoid. Other triggers of asthma attacks can include pollen or dust, sulfites that are added to food as a preservative, or allergic reactions to peanuts or shellfish. For some, their asthma symptoms worsen when they get a common cold or have acid reflux. Once asthma patients identify their triggers, they must adjust their lives to avoid exposure and prepare for potential situations that could trigger an attack.
