Got Asthma as an Adult? This is the Trigger!

Sahabat Hermina, asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, has respiratory symptoms such as wheezing (breath sounds that sound "squeaking"), shortness of breath, heaviness in the chest, coughing varies in time and severity, which is associated with limitation of expiratory air (exhalation of air). Symptoms that arise can be caused by narrowing, thickening of the walls and increased amount of mucus in the airways triggered by viral infections, allergens, cigarette smoke, activity and stress.

Asthma can attack anyone, both children and adults with mild to severe disease degrees, even deadly. Most people who have asthma usually have their first asthma attack as a child. However, it is not impossible that asthma can appear for the first time as an adult. Symptoms that appear and are diagnosed after the age of 20 are referred to asadult-onset asthma.

Asthma Trigger Factors in Adults

Asthma that occurs in childhood and adulthood can be triggered by allergies. In addition to a history of allergies, adult-onset asthma can be caused by inhalation of irritants from the home, work, or surrounding environment. Some of the factors that cause adults to develop asthma include:

• Obesity

Overweight and obesity are risk factors for developing adult-onset asthma in both men and women, increasing the risk of developing asthma by up to 50 percent. The relationship between obesity and asthma is complex, and several theories have been linked to it. One of them is an increase in adipokines such as leptin in deep fat tissue.

• Sex and hormones

After puberty, women are more likely to develop asthma than men. Women who are taking estrogen hormone therapy also have a higher risk. In addition, pregnant women are also at risk because the hormone estrogen plays a role in the emergence of asthma. The risk of developing asthma in women decreases after menopause, except in women undergoing postmenopausal hormone therapy.

• Stress

Stress increases the risk of developing asthma up to 3 times. Some events such as a sick family member, problems in marriage, conflicts with coworkers or bosses, or various unpleasant events in the past can trigger asthma. Stress can cause psychological, immunological, and endocrine system disorders that can contribute to asthma.

• Rhinitis, sinusitis, and respiratory infections

Rhinitis and sinusitis are frequently associated with asthma, in both adults and children. Rhinitis, both allergic and nonallergic, is a risk factor for adult-onset asthma. Chronic sinusitis is more common in adult-onset asthma than in pediatric-onset. One of the most common causes of rhinitis and sinusitis is a respiratory tract infection. Recurrent respiratory tract infections are a risk for developing adult-onset asthma. The risk will be greater with a history of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, or a family history of allergies

• Exposure to irritants

Active or passive smoking increases the risk of developing asthma, especially in people who have a history of allergic rhinitis. Smoking can make attacks worse in people with asthma. In addition, other irritants such as air pollution, dust, mold, and perfume can trigger asthma.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a health disorder that occurs due to the rise of stomach acid into the esophagus (esophagus). This condition is characterized by complaints of heartburn and a burning feeling in the chest.

Asthma Treatment in Adults

Although there is no cure or treatment for asthma is completely cured, you can still control and relieve symptoms if this condition occurs at any time. The most important thing you need to do when you have adult-onset asthma is to find out and stay away from triggers. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe special medications to treat asthma attacks. Asthma drugs in the form of tablets, syrups, and inhales function to smooth the airways. 

Well, to prevent asthma from recurring, you also need to make some adjustments at home and at work. This place must be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and fine materials in the air. In addition, make sure you get enough rest and start living a healthy lifestyle, such as doing special asthma exercises and maintaining a balanced diet. Healthy greetings.