Causes Of Asthma Attacks

We have all heard about asthma attacks but it is only those who have experienced them do know the real terror they bring along. Asthma is a disease of the lungs which makes breathing difficult for a person whom it attacks. It causes inflammation of the lungs as a result of which they become and breathing becomes difficult. On some occasions, the muscles go into spasm and making the channel narrower. The production of mucus causes more difficulty in breathing. Those who are victims of asthma attacks really find breathing difficult. If left untreated, it could even lead to death.

Although no definite causes of asthma attacks have been identified as yet, scientists are of the opinion that asthma occurs because of defective genes and environmental influence. The disease takes a more severe form if both these causes combine with each other. In a majority of asthma cases, it is found to be a disease which runs in a family and a person runs more risk of having it if his/her parent/s or a close relative suffer from this disease.

Asthma often attacks those who suffer from different types of allergic diseases including eczema and hay fever. Breathing difficulty occurs as the breathing tubes become narrower because of the inflammation caused by the entry of cells and chemicals into the lung tissues. The causes of asthma attacks vary from person to person, as different persons are allergic to different things. Anyone suffering from asthma should remain extremely careful of all possible allergies and the surroundings.

The main causes of asthma attacks include certain types of foods (prawns, eggs etc.), some medicines, air pollution, perfumes, smoke, dust, molds, and fumes. Some additives and preservatives used in certain types of foods such as wine, salad dressings, beer, and dehydrated soups can also cause asthma attacks. It is also known that pollen causes asthma attacks. Even things like hair spray and spray deodorants may cause asthma attacks. Among other causes of asthma attacks are exercise, emotional stress, change in temperature, medications and sinus and other infections.

Some precautionary measures can be taken to reduce exposure to allergens that are often found to be causes of asthma attacks. For example, it is necessary to clean carpets at your house regularly, remove rugs, carpets etc. that gather dust, regularly wash pillowcases and sheets in hot water, keep the windows in your room closed, and see to it that the ducts and filters of your air-conditioner are kept clean. It is better to keep animals outside and wash your hands regularly.

The symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and tightness of the chest. The affected person may even turn bluish in color and complain of weakness, rapid pulse, chest pain and nausea. It is better to have an emergency plan ready for an asthma patient. If the attacks are mild, some routine medications, such as an inhaler may suffice. But in case the attack is more severe, talk to a doctor to know if you need to keep an injectable bronchodilator at home. Asthma attacks are very scary, particularly in kids. In serious cases, immediate hospitalization is advisable.

• Janny Raines
• 04/05/2009, 4:59 PM
• 0 Comments