Asthma
The exact cause of asthma is unknown.
People with asthma have inflamed (swollen) and "sensitive" airways that become narrow and clogged with sticky mucus in response to certain triggers .
Factors such as a genes, air pollution, chlorine in swimming pools and modern hygiene standards have been suggested as possible causes, but there's not currently enough evidence to be certain whether any of these do cause asthma.
While the cause of asthma is unknown, there are a number of things that can increase your chances of developing it. These include:
Some people may also be at risk of developing asthma through their job .
Asthma symptoms often occur in responsetoa trigger.
Common triggers include:
Once you know your triggers, trying to avoid them may help control your asthma symptoms.
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In some cases, asthma is associated with substances you may be exposed to at work. This is known as "occupational asthma".
Some of the most common causes of occupational asthma include:
You may be at an increased risk of developing occupational asthma if you are regularly exposed to substances such as these through your work.
Paint sprayers, bakers and pastry makers, nurses, chemical workers, animal handlers, welders, food processing workers and timber workers are all examples of people who may have a higher risk of being exposed to these substances.
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Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties. It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, although it can also appear for the first time in adults.
Most children and adults with asthma find they have times when their breathing becomes more difficult. Asthma symptoms can sometimes get worse for a short time known as an asthma attack.
Factors such as a genes, air pollution, chlorine in swimming pools and modern hygiene standards have been suggested as possible causes, but there's not currently enough evidence to be certain whether any of these do cause asthma.
There's no single test for asthma, but it can usually be diagnosed from your symptoms and some simple breathing tests. Your GP will often be able to diagnose asthma.
Everyone with asthma should be able to lead a full and unrestricted life. The treatments available for asthma are effective for most people.
It's important to take any prescribed medication regularly, as this can help keep your symptoms under control and prevent severe asthma attacks.
Olwen Fish, from Waterhead, Oldham, has had asthma since 1950. She feels lucky to have survived to see the huge increase in effective medication and now lives life to the full.
Mother of three Rosemary Matthews first experienced asthma in her teenage years. "My asthma is under control now. I self-manage it, but I have had to make lifestyle changes in recent years." she says.
Shamim Arshad, who found that walking regularly helped her control her asthma. "My confidence has increased and I've reduced the number of inhalers I need from four to one." she says