FAQs
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as breathing difficulties, wheezing, and persistent coughing. While it cannot be cured, treatment and lifestyle changes can be managed effectively.
What are the common symptoms of asthma?
Common asthma symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing (a whistling sound during breathing), persistent coughing (especially at night or early morning), and chest tightness or discomfort. These symptoms may worsen during an asthma attack.
What are the early signs of asthma?
Early signs of asthma include frequent respiratory infections that are slow to resolve. This persistent cough is unresponsive to standard treatments, breathing difficulties triggered by allergens or exercise, and a family history of asthma or allergies.
What are the main treatments for asthma?
Asthma treatments include inhalers, such as reliever inhalers for immediate symptom relief and preventer inhalers for long-term control. Additional treatments may include oral medications like corticosteroids, allergy treatments like antihistamines, and lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers.
What causes asthma?
Asthma is believed to result from genetic and environmental factors. Common causes include a family history of asthma or allergies, exposure to environmental pollutants, severe respiratory infections in early childhood, and hypersensitivity to triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
How can I stop an asthmatic cough?
To manage an asthmatic cough, use a reliever inhaler as directed by a healthcare provider, stay hydrated to thin mucus, avoid cold air and triggers, and consider anti-inflammatory medications if prescribed. Breathing exercises can also help reduce coughing episodes.
What are the different types of asthma?
Types of asthma include allergic asthma (triggered by allergens), non-allergic asthma (caused by irritants), exercise-induced asthma, occupational asthma (from workplace irritants), childhood asthma (linked to allergies or infections), and adult-onset asthma (which may not be allergy-related).