Asthma - Symptoms, Types, Treatment

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 05:26 PM IST

Asthma is defined to be a chronic and long term condition that affects the air pathway of the human body. It leads to the problem of wheezing. It makes it very hard for a person to breathe. The stimuli to this infection can be in the form of an exposure to an allergen or irritant. This can also be triggered by viruses, exercise, and emotional stress.

Asthma leads to the swelling of the inside walls of the airways. It also leads to the swelling of bronchial tubes

When a person gets an asthma attack, the airways swell. The muscles around the airways get tightened. In such a situation it leads to difficulty for air to move in and out of the lungs. When a survey was performed in the United states it led to find that 7.9% of the US population was infected by asthma.

In this article you will come to know the types, causes, and triggers of asthma.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is known to be a chronic condition that affects the airways of human beings. It leads to inflammation , swelling and narrowing inside the lungs. This condition leads to restriction of air supply.

Symptoms of Asthma :

A person who is suffering with asthma may possess some common problems:

This condition leads to tightness in the chest
It can cause wheezing
Asthma can cause breathlessness
coughing is major problem occuring during asthma
There will be and increased mucus production
An asthma attack can also take place when the above mentioned symptoms become severe. Attacks of asthma can occur suddenly. These attacks range from mild to life threatening.
Sometimes during the case of asthma swelling in the airways takes place which prevents oxygen from entering the lungs. This simply means now that oxygen cannot prevail in the bloodstream and also it can not enter vital organs such as the heart . In such high symptom cases people need urgent medical attention.

NEET Highest Scoring Chapters & Topics

Know Most Scoring Concepts in NEET 2024 Based on Previous Year Analysis.

Know More

Types of Asthma:

Childhood asthma :

When a baby is born before the gestation period of the pregnancy it can lead to childhood asthma. When a child is premature the lungs of the child are not fully developed and then the baby has to put on the ventilator for the major functioning of the lungs.

Stimuli of childhood asthma :

When a baby catches a cold then it can lead to asthma.
If a baby has asthma then the allergy caused by the pollen grains can be very much harmful for him.
There may be allergy to many of the chemicals if a child has asthma.
Childhood asthma can be triggered by coming in contact with perfume or spray.

Adult Onset Asthma:

If someone has not been exposed to asthma in childhood then it is not a condition that he or she will never have asthma. Asthma can develop later in life when a person attains adult age. When asthma occurs during the adult days then it is more dangerous and leads to the more severe symptoms. This type of asthma can sometimes lead to the death of the person. This asthma is triggered by some of the allergens such as chemicals, perfume and also the pollen grains.

Allergic asthma :

It is a connecting link between the allergies and asthma but till now

Nobody knows the connection between both of them. Not all allergies can lead to asthma.

Allergies such as allergy from the pollen grains and some of the chemicals can sometimes lead to asthma but sometimes these cannot lead to asthma and they are only the form of allergies.

Occupational asthma :

This is the most dangerous type of asthma in which the asthma occurred due to your occupation. When you work in some Fields such as in the bangle industry and also in the mining industry then the dust from Industries goes into your bronchioles and leads to bronchitis. It also leads to the inflammation of the lungs. This type of asthma can be more easily seen in the people with low employment and the poor areas.

Diagnosis of Asthma

There are many test for determination the asthma :

Spirometry:

It is usually a lung test that measures how much of the air can lungs be pulled out. It finds out the obstruction that comes in the pathway of the airway. It is done by a simple instrument that is termed as the spirometer.

Nitric oxide test :

In this case the air is artificially inhaled by a machine called a handheld device. Now air is allowed to be exhaled and if the exhaled air contains the nitrogen dioxide then it can be a confirmatory test for the customer. Nitrogen dioxide is usually formed due to the presence of inflammation in the lungs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is nocturnal asthma?

It is defined as the type of asthma whose symptoms get very dangerous at night. This occurs because the airway gets cooled during the night and the person is in a reclining position during the night.

2. What is a challenge test for asthma?

Challenge test:

This kind of test is usually done when the diagnosis is not possible by any other test. This test makes the use of two different agents that are known as mannitol and methacholine. When these two agents inhale the air we get narrow only when the asthma is present and if asthma is not present the airway will not get narrower.

3. What is steroid resistant asthma?

This is a type of asthma which cannot be treated by giving steroids. Even the symptoms even get worse by giving these steroids and it is not cured by any type of medication.

4. What are the symptoms of asthma?

It can cause wheezing
Asthma can cause breathlessness
coughing is major problem occuring during asthma
There will be and increased mucus production

5. Name the most dangerous asthma?

Occupational asthma is the most dangerous asthma.

6. What is asthma and how does it affect breathing?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. It affects breathing by causing the airways to become swollen, constricted, and filled with excess mucus. This makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, leading to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

7. How does asthma differ from other respiratory conditions?

Asthma is unique because it involves both inflammation and reversible airway obstruction. Unlike chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma symptoms can often be completely reversed with proper treatment. Asthma also tends to have triggers that cause sudden flare-ups, whereas other respiratory conditions may have more constant symptoms.

8. What are the main types of asthma?

The main types of asthma include allergic asthma (triggered by allergens), non-allergic asthma (triggered by irritants, stress, or exercise), occupational asthma (caused by workplace irritants), and exercise-induced asthma. Each type has different triggers and may require slightly different management approaches.

9. How does an asthma attack differ from regular asthma symptoms?

An asthma attack, or exacerbation, is a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms. It involves a more severe and often rapid onset of breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and coughing or wheezing. Regular asthma symptoms are typically milder and more manageable with routine treatment, while an attack may require emergency intervention.

10. Why do asthma symptoms often worsen at night?

Asthma symptoms often worsen at night due to several factors: 1) Natural circadian rhythm changes in lung function, 2) Increased exposure to allergens in bedding, 3) The body's decreased production of natural anti-inflammatory substances during sleep, and 4) Lying down can increase mucus accumulation in the airways.

11. How do inhaled corticosteroids work to manage asthma?

Inhaled corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the airways. They suppress the activity of inflammatory cells and decrease the production of inflammatory substances. This helps to prevent airway swelling, reduce mucus production, and make the airways less sensitive to triggers, thereby controlling asthma symptoms over time.

12. What is the difference between controller and reliever medications in asthma treatment?

Controller medications, like inhaled corticosteroids, are taken regularly to prevent asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation. Reliever medications, such as short-acting beta-agonists, are used as needed to quickly relax airway muscles and provide immediate relief during an asthma attack or before exercise.

13. What is the hygiene hypothesis in relation to asthma development?

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that a lack of early childhood exposure to certain infections and microorganisms may increase the risk of developing allergies and asthma. This theory proposes that our modern, ultra-clean environments may prevent the immune system from developing properly, leading to an increased likelihood of allergic reactions and asthma.

14. How does air pollution contribute to asthma exacerbations?

Air pollution contributes to asthma exacerbations by irritating the airways and increasing inflammation. Pollutants like ozone, particulate matter, and nitrogen dioxide can damage the respiratory tract, make the airways more sensitive to other triggers, and directly cause airway constriction, leading to worsened asthma symptoms.

15. What is the relationship between obesity and asthma?

Obesity and asthma have a complex relationship. Obesity can increase the risk of developing asthma and make existing asthma more difficult to control. This may be due to factors such as increased inflammation in the body, mechanical effects on lung function, and hormonal influences. Weight loss often improves asthma control in obese individuals.

16. How do beta-2 agonists provide quick relief in asthma?

Beta-2 agonists provide quick relief in asthma by binding to beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle cells. This causes the muscles to relax and the airways to dilate, allowing more air to flow through. This rapid bronchodilation helps to alleviate symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath within minutes.

17. How do leukotriene modifiers work in asthma treatment?

Leukotriene modifiers work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory substances produced by the immune system. Leukotrienes cause airway constriction, increased mucus production, and attraction of inflammatory cells to the airways. By inhibiting their effects, leukotriene modifiers help reduce inflammation and improve asthma symptoms.

18. How do viral respiratory infections affect asthma?

Viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, can significantly affect asthma by triggering exacerbations. Viruses can damage the protective lining of the airways, increase inflammation, and enhance the airways' sensitivity to other triggers. This can lead to worsened asthma symptoms and potentially severe asthma attacks.

19. How does stress impact asthma symptoms?

Stress can impact asthma symptoms through several mechanisms. It can lead to hyperventilation, which may cool and dry the airways, triggering symptoms. Stress also affects the immune system and can increase inflammation throughout the body, including in the airways. Additionally, stress may cause people to neglect their asthma management, leading to poor control.

20. How do long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) differ from short-acting beta agonists in asthma treatment?

Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) and short-acting beta agonists (SABAs) both work by relaxing airway smooth muscles, but they differ in their duration of action. SABAs provide quick relief and last for 4-6 hours, making them suitable for immediate symptom relief. LABAs have a slower onset but last for 12-24 hours, making them useful for long-term control when combined with inhaled corticosteroids.

21. What is the significance of peak flow monitoring in asthma management?

Peak flow monitoring is a method of measuring how well air moves out of the lungs. It's significant in asthma management because it can detect narrowing of the airways often before symptoms appear. Regular peak flow monitoring can help patients and healthcare providers assess asthma control, adjust treatment plans, and identify triggers or early signs of an asthma attack.

22. How does thunderstorm asthma occur?

Thunderstorm asthma is a rare phenomenon where a thunderstorm triggers a sudden and severe asthma attack in many people simultaneously. It occurs when the storm's downdrafts and outflows concentrate allergens, particularly grass pollen, at ground level. The moisture in the air can also cause pollen grains to burst into smaller particles that can be inhaled deeply into the lungs, triggering widespread asthma symptoms.

23. How do anticholinergic medications work in asthma treatment?

Anticholinergic medications work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes airway muscles to contract. By inhibiting these nerve signals, anticholinergics help relax and open the airways. They also reduce mucus production. While not typically first-line treatments, anticholinergics can be particularly useful in certain types of asthma, especially when combined with other medications.

24. What is the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and asthma?

GERD and asthma often coexist and can exacerbate each other. Acid reflux can trigger asthma symptoms by irritating the airways or causing a reflex that narrows the airways. Conversely, asthma can worsen GERD by changing pressure relationships between the chest and abdomen. Treating GERD can sometimes improve asthma symptoms, highlighting the importance of recognizing and managing both conditions.

25. How do biologics work in the treatment of severe asthma?

Biologics are a class of medications that target specific molecules involved in the inflammatory process of asthma. For example, some biologics target IgE antibodies or interleukins like IL-5 or IL-4. By precisely targeting these inflammatory pathways, biologics can reduce severe asthma symptoms and exacerbations in patients who don't respond well to standard treatments. They represent a more personalized approach to asthma management.

26. What is the significance of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing in asthma management?

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing measures the level of nitric oxide in a person's breath, which is a marker of airway inflammation. High FeNO levels often indicate eosinophilic airway inflammation, common in allergic asthma. This test can

27. What role do inflammatory cells play in asthma?

Inflammatory cells, particularly eosinophils and mast cells, play a crucial role in asthma. They release substances that cause airway inflammation, mucus production, and bronchial muscle constriction. This ongoing inflammation makes the airways hypersensitive to various triggers, leading to asthma symptoms.

28. How does exercise-induced asthma occur?

Exercise-induced asthma occurs when physical activity triggers asthma symptoms. It's believed to be caused by the cooling and drying of the airways during rapid breathing during exercise. This can lead to the release of inflammatory substances, causing airway constriction and symptoms like coughing and wheezing.

29. How do allergens trigger asthma symptoms?

Allergens trigger asthma symptoms by causing an immune response in sensitive individuals. When allergens enter the airways, they are recognized by the immune system, which releases chemicals like histamine. These chemicals cause inflammation, mucus production, and airway constriction, leading to typical asthma symptoms.

30. What is the role of IgE antibodies in allergic asthma?

IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibodies play a crucial role in allergic asthma. When an allergen enters the body, the immune system produces specific IgE antibodies. These antibodies attach to mast cells and, upon subsequent exposure to the allergen, trigger the release of inflammatory substances that cause asthma symptoms.

31. What is airway remodeling in chronic asthma?

Airway remodeling refers to structural changes that occur in the airways of people with chronic asthma. These changes include thickening of the airway walls, increased mucus gland size, and changes in the extracellular matrix. Airway remodeling can lead to permanent narrowing of the airways and reduced lung function over time.

32. How does the autonomic nervous system influence asthma symptoms?

The autonomic nervous system influences asthma symptoms through its parasympathetic and sympathetic branches. The parasympathetic nervous system can trigger bronchoconstriction and increase mucus production, worsening asthma symptoms. The sympathetic nervous system, conversely, promotes bronchodilation. Imbalances in this system can contribute to asthma severity.

33. What is the role of nitric oxide in asthma?

Nitric oxide plays a complex role in asthma. It is produced in higher amounts in the airways of people with asthma and serves as a marker of airway inflammation. Nitric oxide can have both beneficial effects (such as bronchodilation) and harmful effects (contributing to inflammation) in the airways, making it an important molecule in asthma pathophysiology.

34. What is the concept of bronchial hyperresponsiveness in asthma?

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness refers to the increased sensitivity of the airways in people with asthma. It means that their airways react more strongly and easily to various triggers compared to those without asthma. This hyperresponsiveness leads to excessive bronchial constriction in response to stimuli that wouldn't typically affect healthy individuals.

35. How does cold air trigger asthma symptoms?

Cold air can trigger asthma symptoms by cooling and drying the airways. This can lead to the release of inflammatory mediators, causing bronchial constriction. Additionally, cold air can increase mucus production and thicken existing mucus, making it harder to clear from the airways. These effects combine to make breathing more difficult for people with asthma.

36. What is the role of eosinophils in asthmatic inflammation?

Eosinophils are white blood cells that play a significant role in asthmatic inflammation. They release substances that damage airway tissues, increase mucus production, and enhance bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The presence of high numbers of eosinophils in the airways is a hallmark of allergic asthma and correlates with disease severity.

37. What is the concept of the "atopic march" in relation to asthma?

The "atopic march" refers to the typical progression of allergic diseases in childhood. It often begins with eczema in infancy, followed by food allergies, then allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and finally asthma. This concept highlights the interconnected nature of allergic conditions and suggests that early intervention in the atopic march might help prevent or mitigate the development of asthma.

38. What is the role of mucus hypersecretion in asthma?

Mucus hypersecretion is a key feature of asthma that contributes to airway obstruction. In asthma, there is an increase in both the number of mucus-producing cells and the amount of mucus produced. This excess, thick mucus can plug airways, making breathing difficult. It also provides a medium for growth of pathogens, potentially leading to infections.

39. What is the role of epithelial cells in asthma pathophysiology?

Epithelial cells lining the airways play a crucial role in asthma pathophysiology. In asthma, these cells can become damaged and dysfunctional, leading to increased permeability of the airway lining. This allows allergens and irritants to penetrate more easily, triggering inflammatory responses. Epithelial cells also produce inflammatory mediators and growth factors that contribute to airway remodeling and chronic inflammation.

40. How does aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) relate to asthma?

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is a condition where patients have asthma, chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps, and a sensitivity to aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In AERD, taking aspirin or NSAIDs can trigger severe asthma attacks. This condition is related to an abnormality in the metabolism of arachidonic acid, leading to overproduction of inflammatory leukotrienes.

41. What is the concept of the "unified airway" in asthma and how does it relate to conditions like allergic rhinitis?

The "unified airway" concept suggests that the upper and lower airways function as a single unit. In this model, conditions affecting the upper airways (like allergic rhinitis) can impact the lower airways (asthma) and vice versa. This explains why many people with asthma also have nasal symptoms, and why treating conditions like allergic rhinitis can often improve asthma control.

42. What is the role of environmental factors in the development of asthma?

Environmental factors play a significant role in asthma development. These include exposure to allergens (like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander), air pollution, tobacco smoke, and certain occupational exposures. Early life exposures, including maternal smoking during pregnancy and early childhood infections, can also influence asthma risk. The interaction between these environmental factors and genetic predisposition is thought to determine an individual's likelihood of developing asthma.

43. How does the concept of "asthma phenotypes" impact treatment approaches?

Asthma phenotypes refer to distinct subgroups of asthma based on clinical characteristics, triggers, and underlying biology. Recognizing different phenotypes (such as allergic asthma, exercise-induced asthma, or eosinophilic asthma) allows for more personalized treatment approaches. For example, patients with a specific phenotype might respond better to certain medications, like biologics targeting specific inflammatory pathways.

44. What is the concept of "small airway disease" in asthma?

Small airway disease refers to the involvement of the smaller bronchi and bronchioles in asthma. While traditional asthma treatments focus on larger airways, increasing attention is being paid to the role of small airways in asthma symptoms and control. Small airway involvement can contribute to air trapping, increased airway resistance, and poor response to standard inhaled therapies, necessitating different treatment approaches.

45. How does the microbiome of the respiratory tract influence asthma?

The respiratory microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the airways, plays a role in asthma. An imbalance in this microbiome (dysbiosis) may contribute to asthma development and exacerbations. Certain bacteria may have protective effects, while others may promote inflammation. Understanding the microbiome's role opens up potential new avenues for asthma prevention and treatment.