Asthma can be one of the worst health conditions anyone can have. Even popular celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Billy Joel, and David Beckham has it. Although asthma is generally manageable, it can still create an impact on a person’s life. There are also triggers that can cause asthma, which is why it is important to know these said triggers to manage your condition properly.
If you believe you have the condition, it is best to consult an asthma doctor. He or she will provide the right medications and other tips in properly managing your condition. As mentioned, asthma is generally a manageable condition although it can affect one’s quality of life. That said, it is best to follow your allergy physician in taking prescribed medications.
Types of asthma
There are two major types of asthma: allergic and non-allergic. The former is caused by allergen exposures. These may include pet dander, mold, or the smell of a certain perfume. On the other hand, asthma can also be caused by non-allergic triggers. This may include extreme weather condition, excessive exercising, certain illnesses, and some medications.
Exercise can also be an asthma trigger. The effects can be worse due to dry and cold air. Also, your workplace can also be a source of asthma triggers. For example, you may be more prone to asthma if your line of work involves dealing with chemicals, dust, or fumes. In such cases, it is a good idea to call an allergist specialist to determine the type of allergy you have.
Asthma can affect both children and adults. Symptoms may occur in early childhood or later in life. It can affect not only your personal life but also your performance at work or any physical activities. To properly manage the condition, you can visit an allergy clinic near you.
Who is at risk of having asthma?
Asthma symptoms may differ from person to person. It can also be due to environmental factors or genetics. In some cases, people have other kinds of allergies which later on develops into asthma. However, you may be at high risk of having this condition if you fall under at least one of these following criteria:
- Certain allergies (ex. pet dander, fumes, food, etc.)
- Obesity
- Genetics/family history
- Respiratory infection
- Exposure to fumes or dust due to the nature of work
- Exposure to cigarette smoke (ex. you or a family smoke)
You may also be prone to asthma even if you often stay indoors. Indoor asthma triggers may include the following:
Pets
Your beloved furry companions can also compromise your health. Asthma triggers may be due to dead skin (pet dander), saliva, and excrement.
Dust mites
These are small creatures that are not easily seen with the naked eye. It is commonly found in beds, pillows, carpets, fabric-covered furniture, and even stuffed toys.
Mold
It usually forms in moist areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. It can cause unpleasant smells in a moist area which can also trigger asthma.
Meanwhile, other lesser-known asthma triggers include:
- Foods (ex. shellfish, egg, peanuts, etc.)
- Exercise/Any extreme physical activities
- Certain medications (ex. ibuprofen, naproxen, beta-blockers, aspirin)
If you experience any adverse reactions when you come into contact with these potential triggers, it is best to contact an allergy physician immediately.
Asthma management
It is important to turn to medical experts specializing in allergy treatments in case asthma symptoms appear. They are trained to help you manage your asthma and be able to live a normal life. In some cases, you may be prescribed some medications and therapies to manage the condition.
Among common symptoms you should watch out for include the following:
- Chest pains and tightening
- Shortness of breath
- Whistling sound when exhaling
- Constant coughing which can be worse if you have colds
One way to provide relief from asthma is by using a quick-relief inhaler which is often prescribed by doctors. It is also better to avoid going nearby asthma triggers to avoid adverse health effects.
However, it may be better to go to a nearby clinic or hospital if there is no improvement even after using an inhaler. Likewise, shortness of breath to the point of breathing difficulties should also be a sign that it’s time to go to the emergency room.
Contact an asthma doctor
If you or someone you know experience the above symptoms, don’t delay – call an asthma doctor immediately. An allergist doctor in Germantown MD should be able to help manage your condition.