Kinds of Asthma
Asthma is a disorder of the lungs that affects many people. People with asthma suffer from inflamed airways and too much mucus, which can make breathing difficult and cause coughing and wheezing.
There are many different types of asthma, and by studying them you may discover a remedy that will work for you.
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Bronchial Asthma
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Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways resulting in periodic attacks of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. People who suffer from allergies may also have bronchial asthma. It can be triggered by smoking, exercise and anxiety.
Doctors determine the extent of your asthma by administering a pulmonary function or taking a chest x-ray. Common treatments include inhalers and pills.
Adult-Onset Asthma
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Adult-onset asthma refers to people who are at least 20 years of age when they are diagnosed, and doctors surmise that changes in one's environment can trigger it. Women seem to be more susceptible to the condition, which is brought on by pregnancy and menopause, though anyone can suffer from adult-onset asthma. Other triggers include allergies, smoke and perfume.
Doctors approach patients with these symptoms by monitoring their breathing, performing a lung-function test or having them inhale a methacholine (a substance that identifies asthma). Treatment includes medicine. -
Allergic Asthma
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Allergic asthma is triggered by inhaling allergens such as pollen and molds, as well as pet dander. In addition, exercise and smoke can make it worse. According to webmd.com, allergens can't be avoided, so the best approach is to identify what triggers your asthma and avoid it. Allergic reactions may cause itchy red skin and eyes and severe asthma attacks. Antihistamines, saline rinses and nasal steroids are among the treatment options.
Cough-Variant Asthma
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Cough-variant asthma, also called chronic cough, causes a persistent dry cough lasting six to eight weeks. People with cough-variant asthma often have no other asthma-related symptom, and its cause is unknown. Common triggers may be allergens or cold air. It may also follow an upper respiratory infection (i.e. sinusitis). Diagnosing it is difficult due to the lack of symptoms, so doctors often prescribe standard asthma medications and wait for relief.
Exercise-Induced Asthma
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Exercise-induced asthma is triggered by exercise or physical exertion. Those who suffer from the condition experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, fatigue and shortness of breath, possibly caused by inhalation of cool, dry air. Symptoms usually begin five to 20 minutes after exercise begins and five to 10 minutes after.
While suffering from exercise-induced asthma is no reason to stop exercising, a doctor may prescribe inhalers or bronchodilators to control and prevent symptoms.
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