- No one is completely sure what causes asthma. Some theories are that there is a genetic factor involved, that allergies may play a role or that environmental factors such as pollution may cause the disorder. Certain medications may cause asthma in some people. The cause differs from one individual to another.
Obese people are far more likely to develop adult asthma than people of average weight. People with pre-existing allergies, especially to animal dander, are also predisposed to adult asthma. People who work around lung irritants like chemicals or smoke are more likely to develop adult asthma than those who do not. - It takes a trigger to start an asthma attack: a substance or circumstance that causes an attack to occur. The most common triggers are allergens like pollen, mold, smoke or animal dander. Sometimes, asthma may be exercise-induced.
- Most adults become aware of a possible asthma problem when they experience an asthma attack. An attack may start out as coughing, shortness of breath or a mild wheezing and develop gradually into more severe symptoms.
Common symptoms to look for are tightness in the chest, wheezing, coughing, rapid heart rate and tightening of the neck muscles. If you experience these symptoms, especially after encountering a common trigger, see your doctor immediately.
People with adult asthma may experience symptoms between acute attacks. Many have a constant "throat-clearing" cough, even when sleeping. Some may experience chronic chest tightness or pain. Most people who have asthma experience shortness of breath upon exertion, but if asthma is managed correctly it doesn't often evolve into a full attack. - If you suspect you have adult asthma, see your doctor as soon as possible. You will likely be required to undergo a few simple tests. A lung function test involves blowing into a device to measure how much air your can expel and how quickly you can expel it. Your doctor may also choose to perform a chest X-ray to make sure there isn't a more serious condition causing your symptoms.
- Most asthma symptoms can be effectively managed to the point that they are no longer daily problems. If you are diagnosed with adult asthma, your doctor will work with you to set up a treatment plan. This may include long-term medication, emergency medication to take when you feel an attack coming on, or a combination of both. Treating your adult asthma may require a slight change in lifestyle, such as avoiding triggers and carrying a fast-acting inhaler with you, but these slight changes will allow you to breathe easier and live a healthier life.
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