What are the symptoms of asthma?
Common symptoms of asthma include:
- Coughing, especially at night or early in the morning
- Wheezing, which is a whistling sound when breathing
- Feeling tight in the chest
- Shortness of breath during activities or at rest
What causes asthma?
The exact cause of asthma isn’t fully understood, but it is often linked to a mix of genetic and environmental factors, such as:
- Allergies to things like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander
- Air pollution or tobacco smoke
- Respiratory infections
- Physical activity or exercise
How common is asthma?
Asthma is quite common, especially among children. In the UK, it is estimated that around 1 in 11 children has asthma, with many adults also affected.
Who is more likely to get asthma?
Some groups of people are at a higher risk of developing asthma, including:
- Children, especially those with allergies
- Adults who smoke or have smoked in the past
- People with a family history of asthma or allergies
- Individuals living in urban areas with high pollution
How can I treat asthma?
Asthma can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes. Common treatments include:
- Inhalers to help open the airways
- Tablets to reduce inflammation (like montelukast or prednisolone)
- Avoiding triggers like allergens or smoke
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How to live with asthma?
Living with asthma involves managing the condition to prevent symptoms. Here are some tips:
- Use your inhaler regularly as prescribed
- Keep track of your symptoms and triggers
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Work with your healthcare provider to create an asthma action plan
Final thoughts
Asthma is a common condition that can be managed with the right support and treatment. If you have concerns or experience symptoms, speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
