ALL ABOUT ASTHMA: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS & TREATMENT

Known as the most common chronic illness in South African children, asthma is something we can't ignore. Between six and ten percent of adult South Africans have asthma, and over 300 million worldwide are affected.

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In honour of World Asthma Day, we take a closer look at this illness to help you better understand the triggers, symptoms and tips of living with this chronic illness.

WHAT IS ASTHMA?
When we think of asthma, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing comes to mind, and that’s what this illness is – inflammation of the bronchial tubes or airways. It’s a long-term disease of the lungs that causes airways to remain inflamed and as a result, become narrow. When something triggers your symptoms, like dust mites, air pollution, pet dander (tiny pieces of skin shed by cats, dogs, rodents, birds and other animals with fur or feathers), and smoke, your airways could become even more swollen. When asthma is severe, everyday activities like talking or performing physical exercise could become challenging.

While there is no cure for asthma, it is an illness that is very manageable. Knowing the symptoms, triggers and sticking to an asthma action plan that your doctor could recommend, will put you in control and help you effectively manage the illness.



WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS?
Breathe in. Did you hear a faint whistle-like noise? That’s one of the common symptoms. Another is coughing or wheezing. There are more common symptoms, but these will differ from person to person, depending on the type of asthma you have. It's also possible that you'll experience different symptoms at different times.

COMMON SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

• Shortness of breath
• A tight chest
• Coughing, most commonly at night

DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ASTHMA?
That’s right, there are various types of asthma, and knowing the one you’re suffering from could help you immensely. In a nutshell, each type of asthma has different triggers. When you know what triggers your asthma, you’ll have more control, and control is key to avoiding an asthma attack.

1. Allergic asthma: This is the most common type of asthma and is triggered by seasonal allergies like pollen, dust, types of food, or dander from cats or dogs.
2. Non-allergic asthma: Those affected by non-allergic asthma are triggered by allergens found in the air like air pollution, air fresheners, perfumes, cold air, and cleaning products.
3. Occupational asthma: You’ll be triggered by substances mainly found in workplaces like gases and fumes, rubber latex, industrial chemicals, and dyes.
4. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB): As the name suggests, this type of asthma is brought on within the first few minutes of starting exercise.
5. Aspirin-induced asthma: Usually quite severe, you’ll be triggered by aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if you suffer from this type.
6. Nocturnal asthma: Your symptoms will become particularly bad at night and be triggered by dander from pets, heartburn, or even dust mites.
7. Cough-variant asthma: A persistent, dry cough is the most telltale sign.

BUT WHAT CAUSES ASTHMA?
So far, there’s no solid evidence to suggest why some get asthma and others don't. Experts however do believe that asthma may be caused by various reasons, including genetics and a history of viral infections. There’s also a theory that explains when babies are not exposed to enough bacteria, their immune systems may not be strong enough to fight off asthma or other allergens.

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WHAT TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE?
If you are diagnosed with asthma, your doctor will recommend the treatment that fits the type of asthma you have, your age, and what triggers you. These treatments may range from breathing exercises to quick-relief treatments like using bronchodilators to relax the muscles around your airways, and for those with more severe asthma, other options include an inhaled steroid. Your doctor will know the best treatment to suit your type, but it’s up to you to follow their expert advice to help keep asthma attacks away.



WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR?
If you’ve been coughing or wheezing for a few days and experiencing any of the other common symptoms, it’s best to see your doctor immediately to avoid any long-term damage to your lungs.

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5 TOP TIPS FOR LIVING WITH ASTHMA

1. Know what triggers your asthma: Is it pet dander, air pollution, dust mites, or food? Knowing what triggers your asthma can help prevent you from flaring up.
2. Smoke is a big no-no. Coming into contact with smoke will only make your asthma worse, so try to avoid all types of smoke, including tobacco, fires and incense.
3. Try to stay healthy. That means avoiding those with colds and flu and regularly washing your hands.
4. Avoid allergens. Know what you’re allergic to and stay away. Any exposure to allergens could increase inflammation in your airways.
5. Always follow your asthma action plan. That means taking your meds even when you’re feeling your best.

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Sources: Healthline.co.za, cipla.co.za, mayoclinic.co.za, verywellhealth.com, webmd.com