Things you should know about Asthma

Asthma is a debilitating illness, and people with asthma may feel drained of energy. In addition, they often have inflamed sensitive airways. Symptoms include tightness in the chest, breathlessness, wheezing, and coughing. The symptoms may come and go, and some people are lucky because they do not have any symptoms for weeks, even months.

Doctors say that asthma needs daily treatment. It is essential to do the treatment routine even if the person feels well, as this will help reduce the risk of symptoms and attacks.  

Why do some people have asthma?

Asthma usually starts in childhood, but some adults can also develop asthma. According to doctors, the exact causes are still not known. However, asthma usually runs in families and could be inherited. Scientists are still searching for specific answers. However, they have identified some factors that play vital roles in the development of asthma.

One of those factors is genetics, as asthma typically runs in families, so if one or both parents have asthma, there is a higher chance of their children getting it, too. In addition, allergies, respiratory infections during early childhood, and the environment can significantly affect the development of asthma in children and adults. For example, prolonged exposure to allergens, viruses, irritants, dust, and chemicals can lower the person's immune system.

Triggers of asthma symptoms

Several things can trigger asthma or make it worse, but the effects of these triggers differ according to the individual. Therefore, it is vital for people with asthma to find out what triggers their symptoms. For example, it could be due to stress, house dust mites, pollution, pollen, pests, viruses, etc. Further, some people may have temporary asthma due to hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

The most effective way to cope with your asthma is to take your preventer medicine regularly, as prescribed by your GP. You should take it even if you do not have any symptoms. Always have a spare preventer medicine, such as an inhaler, so you do not miss a dose. You can order online by visiting www.anytimedoctor.co.uk and have your medication delivered.

Is asthma a serious illness?

The seriousness of an asthma condition differs from person to person. Likewise, there are several types of asthma. Some people have severe asthma, where they have symptoms often. One of the things they should do to manage their asthma is to use a preventer inhaler or a reliever inhaler. An attack can occur anytime, so it is vital to be aware and know what action to take in case of an asthma attack. Consult with your GP so you can manage your asthma correctly.

Is asthma life-threatening?

An asthma attack could be life-threatening, but some asthma-related deaths could have been avoided. Having a reliever inhaler helps most of the time. But for some attacks, you might need to go to the hospital for treatment. 

Proper management of asthma helps in reducing the attacks. However, keep in mind that frequent attacks can make your asthma condition worsen. As the attacks get more frequent, your airways will have more scarring; thus, making the passageway narrower. Because you will have less air supply, your asthma symptoms worsen. If you notice something different, visit your asthma nurse or GP immediately. Your doctor may need to change your preventer medicine or increase the dosage. 

Asthma could be a lifelong condition. However, there are cases where the condition improves or disappears completely when the person becomes an adult. Using your prescribed medicine is crucial, as there is no cure for this illness.