A chronic disease, asthma is related to problems in the respiratory system. Asthma is an ancient Greek word, which means 'panting or short drawn breath'. Age is not a factor for this disease, as it can affect young and old alike. Asthma causes shortness of breath, constriction of the airways, coughing, wheezing and excess mucus in the air way. In this condition, a foreign body enters the windpipe and causes partial blockage or irritation. An allergic condition, it is triggered by exposure to an allergen, environmental or tobacco smoke, cold or warm air, perfume, pet dander, moist air, exercise or exertion, emotional stress, etc.

Causes of Asthma

Following are the major asthma causes:

1. Allergy from particular weather condition

2. Allergy from some specific food, drugs and perfumes

3. Allergies to dust

4. Air pollution

5. Respiratory infections

6. Presence of sulfites in food

Symptoms of Asthma

1. Headache

2. Runny/stuffy nose

3. Chin or throat itches

4. Feeling tired

5. Dark circles under eyes

6. Trouble in sleeping

7. Poor tolerance of exercise

8. Difficulty in talking or concentrating

9. Decrease or change in lung function

Home remedies for Asthma

Prevention of acute episodes and stopping those that may occur, asthma can be controlled. Besides medication:

1. Stay away from substances that cause asthma attacks.

2. Do not panic during an attack.

3. Use a peak-flow meter to monitor your lung capacity. 2 days before actual asthma symptom airflow drops, you can get to know the actual symptom of asthma before hand. More on asthma in elder

How can one prevent Asthma?

1. Exercising regularly will strengthen your lungs. But consult a doctor before that.

2. Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf during cold weather (it can trigger asthma attack), so that the air that you breathe in is warm and filtered.

3. Note all the factors that are responsible for your asthma attacks and keep away from them.

4. The amount of dust at home can be reduced considerably with regular vacuum

5. To maintain hydration and to loosen airway secretions, drink at-least 8 glasses of water a day

6. Quit smoking and avoid secondary smoke.