Asthma can be described as an chronic respiratory disorder that is characterized by swelling and narrowing of airways, resulting in symptoms such as wheezing, breathing problems tightness of the chest, coughing. Asthma is a problem for people from all ages and vary from mild to severe. Based on the World Health Organization, over 262 million people worldwide suffer from asthma and it could be life-threatening in the event of not being treated properly.

What Are the Causes Which Lead to Asthma?

Asthma is usually caused by a mix of genetic, environmental and lifestyle causes. Below are the most frequently reported reasons:

Genetic Predisposition

If you have asthma in your family and you’re a high risk to get it. Genetics are an important factor in determining if someone will develop asthmatic.

Children with asthmatic parents face an three to six times greater risk.
Asthma could also be connected with other allergies, like the eczema as well as allergy rhinitis.

Allergens

Allergy asthma is the most well-known kind of asthma. If your immune system reacts too strongly to environmental substances this can lead to airway inflammation.

Common allergens include:

Pollen
Mold spores
Pet dander
Dust mites
Cockroach droppings

Allergies that are seasonal tend to cause asthma-related symptoms to worsen, particularly during the months of spring and autumn.

Air Pollution and Environmental Irritants

Air pollution can seriously impact lung function and trigger asthma symptoms. Residents of urban areas with a high volume of traffic as well as industrial pollutant are more at risk.

Harmful pollutants include:

Exhaust fumes from vehicles
Smoke from cigarettes (including the secondhand smoke)
Industrial emissions
The sulfur dioxide in Ozone as well as the sulfur

Even the air pollution in your home caused by burning incense candles or cooking smoke could cause harm.

Chemical Exposure

Asthma is a common occurrence in jobs which require frequent exposure to chemical substances or irritating substances like:

Paint fumes
Cleaning agents
Aerosol sprays
Construction dust

This is referred to by the name of occupational asthma and is a common occurrence in the fields of agriculture manufacturing, hairdressing, and manufacturing.

Respiratory Infections

Infections caused by viruses, particularly during the early years of childhood, may increase the chance for developing an asthma condition.

Infections that are common and may result in asthma:

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Influenza
Common cold
Pneumonia

Children who have severe respiratory illnesses before age 5 are at a greater risk.

Cold Air and Weather Changes

Rapid drops in temperature dry air, sudden drops in temperature and exposure to cool wind can cause airways to narrow and trigger asthma attacks.

Why cold air can affect asthma:

It causes the airways to dry out.
It boosts mucus production.
The airways’ muscles are caused to get tighter.

Physical Activity (Exercise-Induced Asthma)

Although exercise is beneficial for general health, extreme physical activity can cause the bronchoconstriction that is induced by exercise (EIB), especially in dry or cold climates.

Symptoms typically occur in 5-20 minutes of beginning exercise.

Stress and Strong Emotions

The emotional triggers that cause asthma are often overlooked. Stress or anxiety, as well as crying or laughing can trigger asthma symptoms due to fast breathing and tightness of the chest.

How do emotions impact asthma:

The increase in adrenaline
Hyperventilation
Tension in chest muscles

Obesity and Poor Diet

There is increasing evidence that overweight as well as poor diet can trigger asthma, particularly in adults.

Weight excess puts pressure on the lungs.
Fat tissue is the source of inflammation-causing substances.
Foods processed for processing can cause an increase in the risk of oxidative stress.

Exposure to Indoor Mold and Dampness

Living in homes that are damp or working in areas with mold growth can increase the risk of developing asthma. It also aggravates the symptoms already present.

Common causes from indoor mould:

Pipes that leak
Basements that are damp
Poor ventilation
Humidifiers

Prevention and Management

Understanding the causes that trigger asthma could significantly enhance the treatment and prevention of asthma. Here are some suggestions to think about:

Avoid allergens known to cause allergic reactions and environmental irritating substances.
Utilize filters for air and ensure that indoor spaces are free of dust.
Be a part of a healthy and balanced life style that includes exercising and eating right.
Stop smoking and stay clear of secondhand smoking.
Use prescribed medication frequently.
Track your symptoms by using the peak flow meter.
Meet with an asthma specialist to develop a personalised asthma treatment strategy.

Conclusion

Asthma is an interdisciplinary illness that is influenced by genes, environmental and lifestyles, as well as infections. Recognizing the causes of the development of asthma can be the initial step towards preventing flare-ups and leading a healthier life. By identifying the triggers that cause your asthma and taking them care of those suffering from asthma can live regular, active and satisfying lives.

No matter if you’ve been diagnosed recently or you’ve been battling asthma for a while knowing the cause can help you take charge of your health and wellbeing.