Comprehensive Overview of Asthma: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatments, and Preventive Strategies

Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition characterized by narrowing and swelling of the airways, triggered by exposure to allergens or irritants. This response leads to excessive mucus production, causing symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, breathing difficulty, and wheezing. The severity varies among individuals, from mild to severe, significantly impacting daily life. Medical professionals classify asthma into four categories: mild intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, and severe persistent, based on symptom frequency and intensity.

Causes
While the exact cause of asthma remains uncertain, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The triggers vary among individuals but commonly include:

• Allergens such as dust, pollen, mold spores, or pet dander
• Physical activity or exertion
• Exposure to cold air
• Respiratory infections like common cold
• Pollutants such as chemicals, smoke, or gases
• Medications including aspirin, ibuprofen, or beta blockers
• Chronic stress levels
• Food preservatives and sulfites
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

Diagnosis
A pulmonologist assesses symptoms through physical exams and medical history. Tests like spirometry and peak flow measure lung airflow. Additional diagnostics such as methacholine challenge, imaging, allergy tests, nitric oxide testing, and sputum analysis assist in confirming asthma and identifying triggers.

Treatment and Prevention
Depending on severity, doctors recommend medications such as:

• Long-term options: inhaled corticosteroids, combination inhalers, leukotriene modifiers, and beta blockers
• Rescue medicines: short-acting beta agonists, corticosteroids (oral or IV)

• Clean living spaces weekly to reduce allergens
• Use air conditioning and humidifiers at home
• Regularly groom pets to minimize dander
• Wear masks in cold environments