Asthma: Causes, Signs & Management

Asthma: Causes, Signs & Management

Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed, sensitive, and temporarily narrowed. Symptoms often come and go and may be triggered by allergens, infections, exercise, cold air, smoke, or pollution.

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🟣 Wheezing

➟ Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound, usually heard when breathing out

➟ It happens when narrowed airways make it harder for air to move freely

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🟣 Shortness of Breath

➟ Breathing may feel difficult, tight, or more effortful than usual

➟ Breathlessness may appear during exercise, at night, or during an asthma flare-up

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🟣 Chest Tightness

➟ The chest may feel tight, heavy, or constricted

➟ Some people describe it as a band-like pressure around the chest

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🟣 Cough

➟ Asthma can cause a persistent or recurring cough

➟ It is often worse at night, early in the morning, with exercise, or after exposure to triggers

➟ In some people, cough may be the main symptom

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🟣 Allergy Triggers

➟ Dust mites, pollen, mould, pets, and other allergens can trigger symptoms in susceptible people

➟ Allergic conditions such as eczema or hay fever commonly occur alongside asthma

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🟣 Infections, Smoke & Pollution

➟ Viral respiratory infections are a common cause of asthma flare-ups

➟ Cigarette smoke, vaping aerosols, air pollution, and strong fumes can also worsen symptoms

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🟣 Exercise & Cold Air

➟ Exercise can trigger temporary airway narrowing in some people

➟ Cold, dry air may also cause coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness

➟ With appropriate treatment, most people with asthma should still be able to exercise regularly

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🟣 Family History & Atopy

➟ Asthma is more common in people with a personal or family history of asthma, eczema, or allergic disease

➟ Genetics and environmental exposures both contribute to risk

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🟣 How Asthma Is Diagnosed

➟ Diagnosis is based on the pattern of symptoms and evidence that airflow changes over time

➟ Tests may include spirometry, bronchodilator testing, peak-flow monitoring, or FeNO testing

➟ Symptoms alone cannot reliably confirm asthma

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🟣 Management

➟ Avoid or reduce exposure to known triggers where practical

➟ Use your reliever inhaler as prescribed for sudden symptoms

➟ Regular controller/preventer treatment, usually containing an inhaled corticosteroid, helps reduce airway inflammation and future attacks

➟ Correct inhaler technique is essential for treatment to work properly

➟ Follow a personalised asthma action plan and attend regular reviews

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🟣 Seek Urgent Medical Help If

➟ Breathlessness is severe or rapidly worsening

➟ You are struggling to speak in full sentences

➟ Your reliever inhaler is not helping or symptoms return very quickly

➟ Lips or fingertips look blue or grey

➟ You become confused, exhausted, or unusually drowsy

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Medical disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Asthma symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional, and severe breathing difficulty requires urgent medical care.