Asthma: The Science Behind it- Part 1

1. Airway Inflammation Triggers, Causing Swelling and Narrowing of Bronchial Tubes: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways. When exposed to certain triggers, such as allergens (e.g., pollen, pet dander, dust mites), respiratory infections, air pollution, cold air, exercise, or smoke, the airways in the lungs become inflamed. Inflammation causes the walls of the bronchial tubes (the small air passages that carry air in and out of the lungs) to swell and become irritated.

2. Increased Mucus Production Further Obstructs the Already Narrowed Airways: As the inflammation progresses, the cells lining the airways produce excess mucus as a protective response. The increased mucus production, combined with the already narrowed bronchial tubes, leads to further obstruction of the airways. This excess mucus can clog the air passages and impede the flow of air, making breathing difficult.

3. Constriction of Smooth Muscles Around Airways Makes Breathing Difficult: In addition to inflammation and mucus production, the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchial tubes can also constrict or tighten. This constriction narrows the diameter of the airways even more, making it challenging for air to move in and out of the lungs. The tightening of these smooth muscles is called bronchoconstriction and is a significant contributor to the breathing difficulties experienced during an asthma attack.

4. Breathing Becomes Labored, Leading to Wheezing, Coughing, and Chest Tightness: Due to the combination of airway inflammation, increased mucus production, and bronchoconstriction, individuals with asthma experience difficulty breathing. This difficulty can manifest as labored breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound during exhalation), persistent coughing (especially at night or early in the morning), and a sensation of chest tightness or pressure. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the asthma attack.

5. Asthma Attacks May Resolve with Medications Relaxing Airway Muscles: Asthma attacks can be managed and treated using medications that help to relax the smooth muscles surrounding the airways. These medications are typically bronchodilators and work by widening the bronchial tubes, allowing for easier airflow and relieving the symptoms of an asthma attack. Short-acting bronchodilators, also known as rescue inhalers, are used during acute attacks for quick relief. Long-acting bronchodilators may also be prescribed for regular use as part of an asthma management plan to prevent symptoms.

Click here to watch the free mini-course on Healing Asthma - https://www.redashtv.com/opt-in