Asthma

Symptoms of asthma vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are:

• difficulty in breathing
• shortness of breath
• coughing
• wheezing
• chest tightness
• turning very pale

What causes asthma

The exact cause of asthma is unclear, but there are certain factors that seem to increase the risk of developing asthma. These factors include:

• hereditary or genetic factors
• chest infections early in life
• exposure early in life, to house dust, animals (especially cats) and cigarette smoke

What are the common triggers of asthma?

There are two particular groups of asthma triggers. Some cause inflammation in the airways or make existing inflammation worse. Other triggers cause narrowing or constrictions due to the muscles around the airways tightening or spasming.

• Colds/Viruses or other respiratory infections
• Dust/Dust Mites
• Moulds
• Emotions/Stress/Excitement
• Smoke
• Animals
• Exercise
• Pollens
• Weather
• Strong odors or fumes
• Change in temperature
• Chalk dust
• Food
• Carpeting
• Other irritants

Asthma reactions may occur daily, weekly and/or seasonally.

Remember triggers vary widely among people with asthma and can change over time. One person may be sensitive to pollens while another to changes in temperature. It is important to identify and avoid specific triggers.

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