Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes airways to narrow and swell, making breathing difficult. More than 22 million Americans suffer from the condition and its symptoms, including chest pressure and tightening, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Though asthma has no cure, learning how you can manage the condition and avoid things that trigger your asthma can help curb flare-ups so you can breathe easier.
Identification
During an asthma attack, airways that carry air to and from your lungs inflame. Muscles around the airways tighten, leaving less air flowing to your lungs. Cells lining the airways may also produce more mucus that is thicker than normal, further restricting your airways. As a result, you may have difficulty breathing or feel pressure or tightness in your chest.
Causes
Scientists don't know the exact cause of asthma. However, they believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors may trigger an asthma attack. These include airborne allergens such as dust, mold and cockroaches, food allergens, exercise, air pollution, smoke and irritants such as chemicals or odors. Also linked to asthma: preservatives added to some foods and drinks, known as sulfites; respiratory infections; reflux disease; certain medications, including aspirin; some beta-blockers, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure; and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
Symptoms
If you are an asthma sufferer, you may experience frequent coughing, especially at night or in the morning; wheezing, a whistling sound when you breathe; or shortness of breath. Chest tightness, pain or pressure is a common symptom of asthma. In a July 2000 issue of the Postgraduate Medical Journal, a study by W. Edmondstone found that of 100 patients admitted to the hospital with acute asthma, 91 percent reported chest tightness and 76 percent reported chest pain. Patients described the pain as a dull or aching chest pain or a sharp or stabbing pain.
Treatment
Although asthma cannot be cured, medications can help stop or control it. Asthma sufferers often find relief from two types of medications known as long-term control medications or quick-relief medications. Long-term control medications, taken every day, prevent asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation and swelling. Your doctor may prescribe inhaled corticosteroids, a popular type of long-term control medication, for several days or weeks to control the condition. The medication is generally safe and has a low risk of side effects. Quick-relief medications provide short-term relief during an asthma attack by reducing muscle tightness around your airways to ease breathing. Short-acting beta-agonists, which act within minutes to open airways, are a first line of treatment. They include medications albuterol, levalbuterol and pirbuterol. You should take this medication when you begin having symptoms.
Prevention
The best way to avoid an asthma attack is to identify and avoid triggers. Develop an asthma action plan with your doctor, outlining when to take your medications and how to manage your asthma, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute says. Take your medication as prescribed, get regular check-ups and track your symptoms, the institute says. To avoid triggers, use air conditioning during the summer to reduce dust mites, clean regularly to minimize dust and dander in your home, and change filters in your home to keep air clean, MayoClinic.com advises.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What is Asthma?
- "Postgraduate Medical Journal"; Chest Pain and Non-Respiratory Symptoms in Acute Asthma"; W Edmondstone; July 2000
- MayoClinic: Asthma
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: What is Asthma?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Important Triggers
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How is Asthma Treated?
