Asthma is a breathing disorder characterized by the narrowing of the airways. This results in the production of extra mucus, which makes breathing difficult. It also triggers the symptoms of coughing and wheezing. For some people, asthma can be severe enough to interfere with their daily activities. The condition cannot be cured; however, its symptoms can be managed. In this article, we will understand the common causes and popular treatment options for asthma.

Cause of asthma
Exposure to different types of irritants can trigger the symptoms of asthma in people. It is important to understand that the triggers may vary in different people. Some of the common triggers include:

• Respiratory infections such as flu and the common cold
• Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dander, mold spores, dust particles, particles of cockroach waste
• Too much physical activity
• Air pollution and irritants such as smoke
• Very cold air
• Certain medications, including common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, aspirin, beta-blockers, etc.
• Heightened emotions or stress
• Preservatives added to certain types of foods or beverages, such as processed food items, dried fruits, shrimp, beer, wine, etc.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD that causes the stomach acid to back up in the throat

Treatment for asthma
If you are looking to understand the causes and popular treatment options for asthma, you must know that identifying your triggers and avoiding them is the key to maintain your quality of life.

Medications
There are several medications for asthma that can be administered depending on your age and symptoms. The most common types are as follows:

• Long-term asthma control medications: These are very effective medications that help to reduce the swelling in the airways. They aid in controlling the condition on a routine basis to reduce the likelihood of having an asthma attack. Common long-term medicines include inhaled corticosteroids, combination inhalers, theophylline, and leukotriene modifiers.
• Quick-relief medications: Also called rescue medications, these are meant for short-term use, i.e. during an attack. Some doctors also recommend using these before exercise to avoid triggering any symptoms. The most common quick-relief medications are short-acting beta-agonists, anticholinergic agents, and oral and intravenous corticosteroids. In case of an asthma flare-up, you can use a quick-relief inhaler.
• Allergy medications: These medications are used if the asthma is triggered due to some allergy. The most common allergy medications include allergy shots and biologics.

Bronchial thermoplasty
This treatment is typically recommended when asthma is extremely severe and the condition does not improve with long-term medications and corticosteroids. In this, the doctor heats the inside of the airways in the lungs using an electrode. The heat produced reduces the smooth muscle in the airways. This helps to diminish the ability of the airways to narrow and make the breathing process difficult. The treatment is generally done over three outpatient visits.

Knowing both, the causes and popular treatments for asthma helps one feel better in control if they observe any of the condition’s symptoms. It is crucial to get medical attention at the earliest in this case.