Respiratory
Asthma
Also known as: Bronchial asthma, Reactive airway disease
Asthma condition guide: symptoms, causes, prevention, and when to seek care. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Overview
Asthma is a long-term condition in which airways become inflamed and temporarily narrow. Attacks can be triggered by dust, smoke, cold air, exercise, or infections. With the right plan, many people live active lives.
Symptoms
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Cough, especially at night
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness after an attack
- Symptoms worse with dust or smoke
Causes
Asthma comes from a mix of genetics and environment. Triggers include pollen, cockroaches, mould, wood or cigarette smoke, and viral infections.
Treatment (general information)
A clinician may prescribe rescue inhalers and longer-term anti-inflammatory medicines. Learn your triggers and follow the care plan. A severe attack needs emergency care.
Prevention
Avoid smoke and dust where possible, keep living spaces cleaner, take controller medicines as prescribed, and treat colds early. Flu vaccination may help some people.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent help if you cannot finish a sentence because of breathlessness, lips turn blue, or your inhaler is not helping.
Frequently asked questions
- Does asthma go away?
- For many people it is long-term but manageable. Some children see symptoms ease as they grow.
- Is exercise allowed?
- Often yes, especially after a clinician advises on medicine before activity.