Asthma Diagnosis in Maturity: Causes, Signs, Remedies, and Control Strategies
Adult-onset asthma, a chronic lung disease, affects one in twelve adults in the United States, according to recent statistics. This condition, characterised by narrowing and inflammation of the airways and increased mucus production, can lead to problems breathing.
The development of adult-onset asthma is often linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and physiological factors. Smoking is a significant trigger, with continuous smoking accelerating the loss of lung function in these patients. Obesity and metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, also contribute to the development of asthma, particularly in obese individuals.
Allergies, common in around 80% of people with asthma, are major contributors. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, mold spores, and cockroach droppings. Environmental exposures, such as high air pollution, limited green space, and exposure to pollutants, smoke, and chemical fumes, also increase the risk substantially.
Viral and bacterial respiratory infections can trigger asthma exacerbations and contribute to its onset. Hormonal factors, with higher airway hyperresponsiveness observed in adult females, may also play a role. Genetic and prenatal factors, such as family history, prenatal stress, premature birth, maternal smoking during pregnancy, diet, and early antibiotic use, can predispose adults to develop asthma later in life.
Other triggers, such as physical exertion, certain medications, and food preservatives, can provoke airway symptoms leading to asthma. Certain factors, such as exposure to chemicals or irritants in the workplace, can also cause adult-onset asthma.
Symptoms of adult-onset asthma may include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pressure, and colds that seem to linger. Adults are at a higher risk of death due to asthma than children, with 3,524 people dying from asthma in 2019, most of whom were over 18 years old.
Daily prevention of asthma involves taking medications as prescribed, monitoring symptoms, and recognising signs of a flare-up. Quitting smoking is crucial for managing the severity of adult-onset asthma. Inhalers containing corticosteroids are used to treat adult-onset asthma, decreasing airway inflammation and the frequency of symptoms. Fast-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, work by relaxing the muscles of the airways, making breathing easier. Long-acting bronchodilators can prevent symptoms and are used to manage adult-onset asthma.
Doctors can diagnose adult-onset asthma through a physical exam, medical history, and lung-function tests. Treatment for adult-onset asthma may include a combination of lifestyle changes and medications, and may need to take into account any other medical conditions the individual may have.
Awareness of these risk factors helps in prevention, early diagnosis, and targeted management of asthma in adults. By understanding the causes and symptoms of adult-onset asthma, individuals can take steps to protect their lung health and manage this condition effectively.
[1] American Lung Association. (n.d.). What causes asthma? Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/learn-about-asthma/what-causes-asthma
[2] American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (n.d.). Allergies and Asthma. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/asthma-library/allergies-and-asthma
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Asthma. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/
[4] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Asthma. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma
[5] World Health Organization. (n.d.). Asthma. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/asthma
- Science continues to explore the complexities of asthma, a chronic disease affecting one in twelve adults in the United States, with new therapies and treatments being developed to manage this condition more effectively.
- In addition to conventional medications, a naive person might consider alternative approaches like CBD for managing asthma symptoms, although its efficacy requires further scientific investigation.
- A health-and-wellness program in the workplace could promote better sleep hygiene, helping employees manage conditions like adult-onset asthma that can be worsened by inadequate sleep.
- Mental health, a crucial aspect of overall well-being, can also impact the course of chronic diseases such as asthma, with stress potentially triggering symptoms.
- Men's health is particularly susceptible to conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions like asthma, making it important for men to prioritize their health and wellness.
- Women's health encompasses various areas, including eye-health, sexual-health, and skin-care, and should not overlook conditions like asthma, especially for those experiencing menopause, a period associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune disorders.
- Aging comes with an increased risk of chronic diseases, including asthma, making it essential to follow a balanced diet rich in nutrients to maintain proper health and weight-management.
- Parenting involves managing several responsibilities, including ensuring that children with asthma adhere to their treatment plans and avoid triggers such as allergens, poor air quality, and respiratory infections.
- Accidents can result in negligible hearing loss, which, if left untreated, may progress to severe conditions over time, making it crucial to prioritize regular hearing checks and ear care.
- Digestive health is often overlooked, but its importance cannot be understated, as poor digestion can lead to various health issues, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as asthma.
- Ongoing research aims to better understand the intricacies of neurological disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, with a goal of developing effective treatments and managing their impact on individuals' daily lives.
- Regular exercise and fitness routines can help improve overall health, increase respiratory function, and reduce the severity of asthma symptoms in those affected.
- Skin-care goes beyond cosmetic considerations, as certain skin conditions can indicate underlying health issues, such as psoriasis being linked to an increased risk of autoimmune disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
- Secondhand smoke exposure can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it crucial to take measures to minimize smoking in the home and workplace to protect the health of nonsmokers, especially children and those with asthma.
- Medicare provides coverage for a wide range of medical conditions and treatments, including those related to long-term management of chronic diseases like asthma, ensuring seniors have access to essential care.
- Recognizing and addressing the unique aspects of various health issues, such as the distinction between adult-onset asthma and childhood-onset asthma, is essential to provide targeted treatments and improve overall patient outcomes.
