Asthma affects about 1 in every 12 people. It is a long-term condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness, with symptoms often worse at night or early in the morning. It can develop at any age, but it most commonly starts in younger people. Occasionally, asthma symptoms get gradually or suddenly worse and this is known as an ‘asthma attack’ or ‘exacerbation’.
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the small tubes (bronchi), which carry air in and out of the lungs. When a person with asthma comes into contact with something that irritates their lungs (a trigger) their airways become narrow, the muscles around them tighten and there is an increase in the production of phlegm causing symptoms.
Asthma is more common in people who suffer from or who have a family history of atopic conditions such as eczema, food allergies and hayfever.
Asthma can usually be diagnosed by the GP using a few simple tests. It can, however, be more difficult to diagnose in small infants as many other conditions have similar symptoms.
While there is no cure for asthma, there are several treatments that can help control the condition. Identifying and avoiding possible triggers is an important means of dealing with asthma.
Inhalers are used to deliver medication directly into the lungs.
There are two main types:
If your symptoms are not fully controlled with inhalers, your doctor might add additional inhalers or oral medication.