What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic, reversible, inflammation and narrowing of the lung passageways, specifically the bronchial tubes that allow air to enter and exit the lungs. Asthma symptoms include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheeze
A person can have one or all of these symptoms. Asthma can run in families – according to the World Health Organization about have the cases of asthma are due to genetic susceptibility and half result from environmental factors.
Two Types of Asthma
There are two types of asthma: allergic asthma and non- allergic asthma. It’s possible to have both types. Allergic asthma is due to allergen exposure, including: outdoor allergens, such as pollens from trees, grasses and weeds and indoor allergens, such as pet dander, mold and dust mites. Non-allergic asthma is triggered by exercise, viral colds, extremes in weather and sometimes stress. Certain drugs and food additives can also trigger asthma. Irritants, such as smoke, chemical fumes and strong odors, can cause asthma symptoms in some people as well.
How To Treat Asthma
Although there is no cure for asthma, there are many very effective treatments. Prevention of the symptoms, when possible, is the best strategy. It is important to know what triggers your asthma. An allergist can be very helpful in determining what type of asthma you may have and develop a treatment plan. Studies show that asthma patients under the care of an allergist decrease their symptoms, ER visits, hospital stays, doctor visits, and miss fewer days from school/work. Many people with asthma live a healthy and productive life by avoiding triggers and following their allergist’s treatment recommendations.
If you’re suffering from asthma symptoms, an asthma specialist at ASC can help you with a plan to manage your asthma. Advanced Asthma and Allergy Care offices are located in Danbury, New Milford, Ridgefield and Norwalk in Fairfield County, CT.