Asthma is one of the most common chronic (long-term) respiratory diseases, affecting both children and adults. It is one of the most common lifestyle and environmental diseases today.
While asthma cannot be completely cured, it can be managed and prevented with lifestyle changes and awareness about risk factors.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways in the lungs. Airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. If you have asthma, your airways become inflamed and narrowed. This makes it difficult for your airways to allow air in and out of your lungs. If untreated, asthma can lead to a lethal condition.
Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing
- Long-term cough
- Chest tightness
- Whistling sound when breathing, especially at night
Causes:
- Family history
- Overweight or obesity
- Allergic conditions
- Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
- Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
Risk factors:
- Indoor or outdoor air pollution
- Allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander
- Respiratory infections like sinusitis, cold, and flu
- Stress and depression
- Weather changes (cold or humid air)
- Family history (parent or sibling)
- Repeated respiratory infections
Complications:
- If not controlled, asthma may lead to:
- Permanent narrowing of airways
- Chance of severe attack
- Increased risk of lung infections
- Reduced quality of life and physical activity
Prevention & management:
While asthma can not be permanently cured, it can be effectively managed. People with asthma can live a healthy and active life by adopting the following asthma management plan:
- Practice breathing exercises like pranayama and yoga
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise
- Understand your asthma, identify and avoid triggers like dust, pet dander, pollen, and smoke
- Follow prescribed medication like an inhaler
- Stop smoking and prevent yourself from secondhand smoke