Asthma

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What is asthma?

Air travels to and from the lungs through a network of branching tubes called airways. In people with asthma these airways are over-sensitive. When they meet a trigger, the muscles around them tighten and the inner lining swells and produces extra mucus, so the airways narrow and air can no longer flow freely.

These episodes come and go. Between them, many people have no symptoms at all.

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Section 2 of 7

What causes asthma?

Why some people develop asthma is not fully understood, but inherited and environmental factors both play a part. Once a person has asthma, many everyday triggers can bring on symptoms.

A family history of asthma or allergies
Exposure to chemicals, dust or fumes at work
Tobacco smoke, including second-hand smoke
Indoor air pollution and wood smoke from cooking
Allergens such as house dust, pollen and animal fur
Chest infections, cold weather and sudden weather changes
Strong emotions or stress

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Symptoms of asthma

Symptoms usually come in episodes and are often worse at night, in the early morning or on waking. Exercise, cold baths, dust, changes in weather or certain foods can set them off.

Shortness of breath that limits everyday activity
A tight feeling in the chest
Cough
Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing

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Who gets asthma?

Asthma can start at any age.

Childhood asthma — the most common form, usually with a strong family history of asthma or allergies
Late-onset asthma — begins in adulthood, often with no family history
Occupational asthma — caused by chemicals, biological agents or fumes in the workplace

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Can asthma be dangerous?

A severe asthma attack can be life-threatening. Most attacks can be prevented with the right medicines and by acting early on warning signs.

Symptoms that wake you up at night
Your reliever inhaler (salbutamol) is not helping and symptoms keep getting worse
You are too breathless to finish a sentence

If you notice any of these warning signs, go to the nearest hospital or seek medical help immediately.

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Can asthma be cured?

Like high blood pressure or diabetes, asthma is a long-term condition that is controlled rather than cured. Most people achieve very good control with inhaled medicines, and symptoms usually settle within a few weeks of starting the right treatment.

Even when you feel well, your airways stay sensitive. That is why preventer medicine is often needed for a long time, and for some people for life.

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Asthma medicines

Asthma medicines are safe, effective and not addictive. They only work well when used correctly, so ask your doctor or nurse to check how you use your inhaler.

Reliever (rescue) inhaler — usually blue (salbutamol). Opens the airways quickly to ease cough and wheeze, but the effect is short and it does not treat the underlying swelling
Preventer inhaler — taken every day, even when you feel well. Reduces swelling in the airways and protects against severe attacks
Preventers take two to three weeks to show their full benefit, so keep using them as prescribed

Everyone with asthma should keep a reliever inhaler with them. Do not stop your preventer without medical advice.

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