preventing asthma

Overview

Asthma is a long-term condition that affects the airways in your lungs. The airways become inflamed and narrow, making it harder to breathe. You may have times when your symptoms are mild and other times when they flare up.

Yes. Asthma is one of the most common long-term conditions in the world, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds.

Asthma often starts in childhood, but it can begin at any age. Some people have a higher risk, including those with allergies, a family history of asthma, or exposure to tobacco smoke.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• coughing, especially at night or during exercise
• shortness of breath
• chest tightness, pain, or pressure

Symptoms in children

• frequent coughing that may get worse at night
• making a whistling sound when breathing out
• faster breathing or working harder to breathe
• poor feeding in babies or trouble keeping up in play

Symptoms in older adults

• more breathlessness than usual when walking or exercising
• fatigue or weakness
• a dry cough or chest tightness
• confusion or drowsiness may appear in severe attacks

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood. It involves inflammation (swelling) of the airways, which makes them oversensitive to certain things called triggers.
• Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet fur, cold air, exercise, smoke, and strong odours.
• In some people, a viral infection or weather changes can bring on symptoms.

Risk factors

• having a parent or sibling with asthma
• allergic conditions like hay fever or eczema
• birth at low weight or premature birth
• exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy or childhood
• living in areas with high air pollution
• being overweight

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have symptoms that are getting worse quickly, such as severe wheezing or breathlessness, seek same-day medical help.
• If a child is working hard to breathe or is too breathless to talk or feed, get urgent care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice a cough, wheeze, or breathlessness that keeps coming back.
• If you use a reliever inhaler more than usual, discuss with your doctor.
• If you think a medication or habit may be triggering symptoms, ask about it.

Diagnosis

A doctor listens to your symptoms, asks about family history, and may do breathing tests. There is no single test for asthma, so diagnosis can take time.

Tests that may be done

• Spirometry: you blow hard into a tube that measures how much air you can breathe out in one second.
• Peak flow test: you blow into a small handheld device to check how well your airways are working.
• Sometimes a doctor may suggest a trial of asthma treatment to see if symptoms improve.

What to expect at your appointment

These tests are painless and usually done in a clinic. You may be asked to avoid certain activities or foods before the test, but you can go home the same day.

Treatment

Asthma treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing attacks, and helping you live normally. This usually involves avoiding triggers, learning proper inhaler technique, and taking medicines as prescribed.

Self-care at home

• Learn your asthma triggers and avoid them where possible.
• Take your inhalers exactly as prescribed, even when you feel well.
• Use a spacer with your inhaler if recommended to help medicine reach your lungs.
• Have a written asthma action plan and keep it up to date.
• Stay physically active, but warm up and manage exercise-induced symptoms with your doctor's advice.

Medical treatments

Doctors usually prescribe inhalers. There are two main types: ‘reliever’ inhalers that work quickly to open airways during an attack, and ‘preventer’ inhalers that reduce airway inflammation over time. Some people also need longer-acting inhalers. Your doctor will tailor a plan for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a usual treatment for asthma. In very rare, severe cases, doctors may consider other procedures, but everyday management focuses on medicines and lifestyle.

Living with this condition

Living with asthma means staying on top of your routine: take your medicines, check your peak flow if advised, and be aware of your early warning signs. A well-managed asthma lets you participate in almost all activities.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a record of triggers and symptoms to share with your doctor.
• Create a smoke-free home and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
• Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular activity.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress, as these can affect breathing.
• Get the flu vaccine each year if your doctor recommends it.

Diet and exercise

There is no special ‘asthma diet’, but eating a balanced diet supports your lungs and overall health. Exercise is safe and beneficial for most people with asthma. With proper warm-up and treatment, many people with asthma complete sports and gym routines without problems.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a long-term condition can cause anxiety or low mood. It is normal. If asthma worries interfere with your daily life or sleep, talk to your doctor. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and support groups can help.

Prevention

Asthma itself cannot always be prevented, but there are ways to lower the risk of developing it and to prevent symptoms from getting worse. For example, avoiding smoking, controlling allergies, and keeping a healthy weight may help. If you are pregnant, quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke can reduce your child’s risk.

Vaccines

Vaccinations such as the flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine may help prevent respiratory infections that can trigger asthma attacks. Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for asthma in everyone. If you have a family history or regular breathing symptoms, a doctor can assess your risk and check your lungs early.

Complications

If left untreated

• frequent and severe asthma attacks that need emergency care
• permanent narrowing of the airways over time
• poor sleep, missed school or work, and less enjoyment of physical activity
• in rare cases, life-threatening breathing failure

Long-term outlook

Most people with asthma live full, active lives when they work with their healthcare team. It is a journey, not a fixed sentence. With the right plan, support, and adjustments, your asthma can be kept on track and you can enjoy life to the fullest.

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