Do you have asthma or something else? Understanding symptoms, causes, management

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways, causing inflammation and constriction, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. While it is not entirely clear what causes asthma, several factors, including genetics, environmental triggers, and respiratory infections, are believed to play a role in its development.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shrey Srivastav, Assistant Professor -Internal Medicine at Sharda Hospital in Greater Noida, revealed that the symptoms of asthma can vary in severity and frequency from person to person where the common symptoms include –
According to Dr Shrey Srivastav, while the exact cause of asthma is unknown, several factors contribute to its development like –
Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of lab at Neuberg Diagnostics in Noida, shared, “Diagnosing asthma typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and lung function tests, such as spirometry and peak flow measurements. Your doctor may also order allergy tests to identify potential triggers.”
Dr Vigyan Mishra said that while there is no cure for asthma, various treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and prevent asthma attacks like –
Dr Vigyan Mishra concluded, “Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. While the exact cause of asthma remains unknown, genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, respiratory infections, and occupational exposures are believed to contribute to its development. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination and lung function tests, while treatment focuses on managing symptoms, avoiding triggers and preventing asthma attacks. With proper management and adherence to treatment plans, individuals with asthma can lead active and fulfilling lives.”