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Medical articles

Reviewed by: Dr. Ahlam Haroun, specialist in chest and internal diseases and sleep disorders

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the respiratory system, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
It obstructs airflow naturally. Asthma symptoms vary and their severity varies from one person to another, and may be similar to allergies and other respiratory diseases, so;

Symptoms of asthma

Asthma can present in a variety of ways, with each person experiencing a unique set of signs that vary in severity and frequency.

It is important to note that not all individuals with asthma will experience the same symptoms, and the severity of these symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.

What are the symptoms of an asthma attack?

Asthma attacks occur when the airways become inflamed and severely constricted, leading to a sudden and significant worsening of symptoms.

If a person experiences these symptoms, it is important to take rapid control medications, such as inhaled bronchodilators, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms do not improve or get worse.

By identifying and avoiding these triggers, individuals with asthma can better manage their condition and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.

What is the difference between allergies and asthma?

While asthma and allergies are often closely related, it is important to understand the key differences between the two conditions.

Allergies are an immune response to certain substances, such as pollen or pet dander, while asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways.

But these symptoms are usually accompanied by distinct symptoms, such as: wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Conversely, allergic individuals may experience only allergy symptoms without all the severe symptoms associated with asthma.

Many people suffer from both asthma and allergies, both closely linked to the immune and respiratory systems.

Causes of asthma

The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but there is much research that links several factors to an increased risk of developing it, the most important of which are:

Genetics and family history: The likelihood of developing asthma increases if other family members, especially relatives, also have asthma.
Allergic conditions: People with other allergic conditions, such as eczema and hay fever, are more likely to develop asthma.
Stressful, early life events, such as:
- Low birth weight.
- الولادة المبكرة.
- Exposure to tobacco smoke since childhood.
- Air pollution surrounding the child.
- Frequent viral respiratory infections in childhood.

Environmental factors: Exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander, as well as air pollution and occupational irritants can significantly trigger asthma.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese is also associated with an increased risk of infection.

Book your consultation now at عیادة أمراض الجهاز التنفسي At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

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Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the respiratory system, making it inflamed and sensitive. Although it is possible to control asthma and live a normal life with it, it can become dangerous, and even life-threatening in some cases, if it is not treated appropriately.

What makes asthma dangerous?

Severe asthma attacks: It can cause severe narrowing of the airways, making breathing very difficult or impossible.
Loss of control of symptoms: If treatment doesn't control asthma symptoms, attacks may recur and increase in severity, affecting quality of life and increasing the risk of complications.
Asthma complications: These include pneumonia, permanent narrowing of the airways, and heart failure as a result of stress and insufficient oxygen delivery.
Not following the treatment plan: If a patient does not follow a doctor's recommended treatment plan, such as taking medications regularly and avoiding allergens, the risk of severe asthma attacks and complications may increase.

Can asthma be cured?

Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be well managed with proper treatment, and although some children may grow out of it as they get older, asthma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing medical management for most people.

The goal of Asthma treatment It is to control symptoms and prevent severe attacks.

Asthma medications come in different forms, including inhalers and sprays that deliver medication directly to the lungs, to prevent complications.

Asthma is a complex and multifaceted respiratory condition that can significantly impact an individual's daily life.

The most common symptoms of asthma include:

Whistling: It is an abnormal, high-pitched breathing sound resulting from narrowing of the airways.
Tightness or pain in the chest: Individuals with asthma may experience chest discomfort, which may range from mild to severe.
Cough: Persistent coughing, especially at night or during physical activity, is a common symptom of asthma.
ضيق التنفس: Its severity can range from a mild sensation of shortness of breath to a more severe and uncomfortable experience as if something is blocking the ability to inhale any air.
Fatigue and weakness: It often results from the body's struggle to maintain adequate oxygen levels during an asthma attack.

Signs and symptoms of an asthma attack include:

Severe wheezing during inhalation and exhalation.
Unbearable tightness or chest pain.
Shortness of breath, with difficulty speaking in complete sentences.
Fast and disturbed breathing.
Increase the use of auxiliary breathing muscles, which are the neck, chest and abdominal muscles.
Facial paleness or sweating.
Lips and nails change color to blue, as a sign of low oxygen levels.

Read also: What is the difference between asthma and shortness of breath?

Allergens, such as pollen, dust, animal dander, and mold.
Respiratory infections: Viral or bacterial infections that affect the respiratory system, such as the common cold or influenza, may exacerbate and activate asthma symptoms.
Physical activity, especially when done in cold or dry air.
Stress and anger, as many asthma attacks are associated with exposure to psychological conditions and severe emotional situations.
Air pollution and irritants, such as smoke, chemicals or extreme weather conditions, often irritate the airways and worsen asthma symptoms.