More than 17 million Americans are estimated to have Asthma, affecting more than 4.8 million children under 18, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Though the disease is widespread, it was not always this way. The prevalence of asthma has increased 75 percent from 1980-1994, according to statistics from the academy. Though researchers have yet to pinpoint the cause for the increase, allergic rhinitis is considered to be a main risk. With the spring allergy season upon us, one should know the causes and the treatment of asthma.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder involving constriction of the muscles lining the bronchial airways. Some symptoms include coughing, wheezing, tightness of the chest and shortness of breath. Asthmatic lungs are often referred to as “twitchy,” meaning they overreact to stimuli that tend to be harmless to others, including allergens and cold, dry air.

Other causes of asthma irritants include strong odors and sprays, viral or sinus infections, gastroesophageal reflux disease, medication and foods and emotional anxiety, according to the AAAAI.

During an asthma attack, the muscles around the bronchial tubes tighten, causing the airways to narrow. The bronchial tubes are inflamed and become more swollen, while a thick mucus is produced within the bronchial tubes.

To diagnose asthma, a thorough history is taken and a physical examination is performed, paying special attention to the nose and sinuses for signs of a chronic infection. A spirometer also is used to objectively measure the amount of air inhaled and exhaled to determine the level of airway obstruction. Allergy tests also are performed to determine if certain allergens trigger asthma attacks. During the test, a tiny amount of allergen is scratched across or lightly pricked into the skin. If a person is allergic to a specific allergen, a red bump will appear on the skin.

Although there is no cure, there are effective treatment methods, says the academy. Medication therapies are designed to minimize the inflammation of the airways. There are many options including corticosteroids, usually prescribed in inhaler form, anti-leukotrines, which fight the inflammatory response typical of allergic disease, and bronchodilators, which are generally used as asthma “rescue medications” to relieve the symptoms of an asthma attack at the moment of the attack.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have any questions, you should consult your physician, the AAAAI advises. If it is diagnosed early, people who have asthma will be able to breathe easier.

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