Asthma
Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways of the lungs become swollen and narrow, making it hard to breathe. It often starts in childhood but can begin at any age. It cannot be cured, but with the right inhalers most people live a normal, active life. A severe asthma attack can be life-threatening.
Symptoms
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Shortness of breath
- Tight feeling in the chest
- Cough, often worse at night or early morning
- Symptoms brought on by dust, smoke, cold air, exercise or a cold
Causes
- Family history of asthma, eczema or allergies
- Dust, pollen, animal hair and mould
- Tobacco smoke, smoke from cooking fires and heaters, and air pollution
- Cold air and chest infections
- Exercise
- In some people, painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen
Prevention
- Learn your triggers and avoid them where possible
- Keep the home free of smoke and never smoke indoors
- Use your preventer inhaler every day as prescribed, even when you feel well
- Ask your doctor for a written asthma action plan
- Get a flu vaccine where available
Treatment
- A reliever inhaler (such as salbutamol) for quick relief during symptoms
- A preventer inhaler (usually a steroid) used daily to calm the airways
- Correct inhaler technique — a spacer helps children and older people
- Regular check-ups to adjust treatment
- Emergency care with oxygen and stronger medicines for a severe attack
- Do not start or stop prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Are asthma inhalers addictive or harmful?
No. Inhalers are not addictive. They deliver a small dose straight to the lungs, so they have fewer side effects than tablets. Rinse your mouth with water after a steroid inhaler.
Can a child grow out of asthma?
Some children have fewer symptoms as they grow older, but asthma can return later in life. Keep using the treatment your doctor advises and do not stop it on your own.