Asthma: Causes, Types, Symptoms & Management – A Comprehensive Overview
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This presentation provides a detailed yet concise overview of Asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. It covers the definition, etiology (causes), different types, signs & symptoms, and common triggers of asthma. The content highlights both allergic (extrinsic) and non-allergic (intrinsic) asthma, along with specific forms like exercise-induced, occupational, drug-induced, and nocturnal asthma. Whether you are a healthcare professional, student, or someone looking to understand asthma better, this presentation offers valuable insights into the condition and its management.
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Asthma: Causes, Types, Symptoms & Management – A Comprehensive Overview
- 1. ASTHMA Dr Aman Suresh T Assistant professor Department of Pharmacy Practice
- 2. DEFINITION • Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that causes airway hyperresponsiveness, mucosal edema, and excessive mucus production, leading to reversible airflow obstruction. It is characterized by episodes of wheezing, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, which can vary in severity and frequency.
- 3. ETIOLOGY • Genetic Predisposition – Family history of asthma, allergies, or eczema. • Allergens – Dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, cockroach droppings. • Air Pollution – Smoke, vehicle emissions, industrial fumes. • Respiratory Infections – Viral infections like RSV, Rhinovirus, Mycoplasma pneumoniae. • Cold Air & Weather Changes – Can trigger airway irritation and bronchospasm.
- 4. • Emotional Stress & Anxiety – Can lead to hyperventilation and bronchospasm. • Obesity – Increases airway inflammation and reduces lung function. • Medication-Induced – Aspirin, NSAIDs, and beta- blockers can trigger asthma. • Occupational Exposure – Chemicals, dust, fumes, and strong odors at workplaces. • Exercise – Particularly in cold, dry air (Exercise- Induced Bronchoconstriction).
- 5. TYPES • Extrinsic (Allergic) Asthma-Triggered by external allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, or certain foods.Often associated with allergic reactions (IgE-mediated response).Common in children and young adults. • Intrinsic (Non-Allergic) Asthma-No identifiable external allergens. Often triggered by infections, stress, cold air, exercise, or air pollution. More common in adults, especially after respiratory infections.
- 6. • Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA) / Exercise- Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)-Symptoms occur during or after physical activity.Triggered by cold, dry air and increased breathing rate.Common in athletes and children. • Occupational Asthma-Caused by exposure to workplace irritants such as chemicals, dust, fumes, or gases. Symptoms improve on weekends or vacations but worsen at work.
- 7. • Drug-Induced Asthma-Triggered by medications like aspirin (Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease - AERD), NSAIDs, or beta-blockers. • Nocturnal Asthma-Symptoms worsen at night due to hormonal changes, lying down, or exposure to dust mites in bedding.
- 8. • Cough-Variant Asthma (CVA)-Chronic cough is the primary symptom, often without wheezing.Difficult to diagnose and often mistaken for other respiratory conditions.
- 11. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS • Wheezing – A whistling or high-pitched sound during breathing, especially during exhalation. • Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) – Difficulty in breathing, especially after physical activity or at night. • Coughing – Persistent cough, which may worsen at night or early morning. • Chest Tightness – A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the chest.
- 12. • Difficulty Speaking – In severe cases, shortness of breath may make it hard to talk in full sentences. • Fatigue – Due to reduced oxygen levels and increased respiratory effort. • Anxiety & Restlessness – Feeling panicked or anxious due to difficulty breathing. • Cyanosis (Severe Cases) – Bluish discoloration of lips and fingers due to low oxygen levels. • Increased Mucus Production – Excessive mucus in the airways, leading to congestion. • Prolonged Expiration – Difficulty in exhaling fully due to airway obstruction.
- 13. Thank You