People with Asthma often have trouble breathing when they are in the presence of what is called a "trigger". When someone with Asthma has symptoms it means that the flow of air is obstructed as it passes in and out of the lungs. This happens because of one of the following: The lining of the airways become inflames (irritated, reddened, swollen), and may produce more mucous. The more inflammation the more sensitive the Airway become there by resulting in less air passing in and out of the lungs.
The muscles that surround the airways become sensitive and start to twitch and tighten, causing the airways to narrow. This usually occurs if the inflammation is not treated.
Both of these factors cause the airways to narrow, making it difficult for air to pass in and out of them.
The airways of someone with asthma are inflamed, to some degree all the time. The more inflmaed the airway the more sensitive the airway becomes. This leads to breathing difficulty.
Asthma can affect anyone
- Asthma is a chronic condition, meaning it needs to be monitored and controlled over a lifetime. Anyone can develop Asthma at any stage in their lives. Although it is commonly diagnosed in young people. Currently, about 5 million people in the UK have Asthma.
Living with Asthma
Most people with Asthma can live full active lives, the trick is learning how to keep your Asthma well controlled and minimize symptoms. If you have Asthma, you can control it:
- By avoiding known Asthma triggers
- By taking your medication
- Through Asthma education through your healthcare provider or support organisations
- By following an Asthma action plan.
