Asthma is a condition that is characterized by coughing and wheezing, which can occur anywhere at any time. It is an inflammatory disease that causes symptoms such as tightness in the chest, breathing difficulties, and painful spasms in the respiratory system. Early detection is very important to prevent this condition from worsening or becoming chronic.
Asthma affects the respiratory system. As an example, when air enters the lungs, it reacts with mucus to create a barrier that prevents the air from being toxic or attacking the lungs. The reaction of the mucus to irritants and allergens causes the mucus to become thick, sticky, and difficult to pass through. When it becomes too thick, it causes a tightening of the airways, which can cause difficulty breathing.
Asthma is not contagious, but it does not occur in children without medical treatment. Although this condition is commonly diagnosed in adults, this condition can also be present in children during the childhood years, causing a very uncomfortable condition for these children.
Asthma has many causes, including genetics, environmental pollution, exposure to chemicals, and even pollutants within the air that are inhaled into the lungs. Early diagnosis of asthma is important to prevent the symptoms from worsening. The earlier the condition is treated, the less it will cost.
The airways in the lungs are partially covered by adenoids, tonsils, and some parts of the soft palate. These tissues are connected to the lungs by a thin tube. The symptoms of asthma are caused by the inflammation of these tissues. The inflammation leads to swelling and tightness in the airways.
Inflammation can take place at any point during the body’s response to infection. The inflammation can be from allergens or the normal reaction to infection and is often preceded by an attack of bronchitis or other lung infections. During this time, there may be a fluctuation in blood pressure.
This inflammation can also occur due to medical conditions, and in fact, this is the most common type of inflammation that can cause asthma. A severe allergic reaction to insect bites or ingesting food or drinks that have a high content of sugar can cause inflammation, which is usually mild. However, if the inflammatory process continues, the lining of the airways can become swollen and painful, causing an attack of asthma.
Medical conditions that can cause inflammation are Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, gallstones, thyroid problems, and certain tumors in the digestive tract. Certain types of cancer of the digestive tract can also cause inflammation. The condition is further aggravated by stress, which is thought to play a role in triggering the release of histamines, which in turn, increases the body’s need for histamine to function properly.
Exposure to air pollution and irritation caused by stress, irritants such as tobacco smoke, or chemicals can also cause inflammation. Infections and diseases of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach can also cause inflammation. When inflammation begins, the ability of the body to fight infections increases, and with this increased fighting ability, the inflammation process can be controlled.
While there are medications that can be prescribed by doctors, they are primarily for the relief of symptoms rather than cure the condition. A change in diet, changing the way you breathe while sleeping, or taking allergy medications are some things that can be done to control the inflammation. Over-the-counter products can also be purchased to help with the inflammation.
Often, the signs of asthma attacks are not immediately recognized. That is why it is important to ask friends and family for help, as well as contact your physician if your symptoms seem to be getting worse. If the asthma is not treated early enough, it can progress to the point where the problem is more severe and life-threatening.
