Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that causes difficulty breathing and can cause death. In susceptible individuals, this inflammation causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning. These episodes are usually associated with widespread but variable airflow obstruction that is often reversible either spontaneously or with treatment.
Overview
What is Asthma?
Symptoms
What are the signs of Asthma?
The common symptoms associated with asthma include:
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Chest tightness or constriction
Persistent cough
Flattened diaphragm and hyper-inflated chest
Fatigue
Difficulty talking
Causes
What are the causes of Asthma?
People with asthma have airways that are more sensitive to some things that may not impact people without asthma. The most common triggers in asthma include:
Allergens such as pollen or mould spores
Cigarette smoke
Dust and dust mites
Fumes and strong odours
Respiratory infections
Some medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Exercise and physical activity
Pets
Diagnosis
How do I know if I have Asthma?
A comprehensive assessment is needed to differentiate between asthma versus an alternate disease or condition such as emphysema or early congestive heart failure. To make a thorough your doctor is likely to ask you about your medical and family history and perform a physical exam involving a spirometer to measure lung and airway function, and a peak flow metre to measure the maximum speed of air from forced expiration.
Your practitioner might recommend the following to support treatment:
Allergy panel IgA, IgG, IgE for Foods & Inhalants