Asthma cannot be completely cured. However, with proper treatment it is possible to effectively manage the symptoms and lead a normal, active lifestyle.¹

The exact cause of asthma is not known. Airways in the lungs get inflamed (swollen) in asthma making it difficult to breathe. It can run in families, especially if close relatives like parents or siblings have it and is more common in people with allergies such as eczema or hay fever. Residing in urban areas, where air pollution levels are typically higher, can increase the related health risks. Early-life factors like low birth weight, prematurity, and exposure to tobacco smoke or pollution can contribute, as well as environmental triggers such as dust mites, mould, chemicals, or fumes. Additionally, being overweight or obese heightens the risk of developing asthma.²

Inhalers are the most common, recommended and effective solution. Inhalers deliver medicine directly to the lungs and can help relieve symptoms or prevent them from occurring.¹

• Preventer inhalers are taken every day to decrease airway inflammation and avoid symptoms
• Reliever inhalers provide rapid relief from symptoms as they occur.

It is important to use your inhaler as prescribed by your doctor.

 

Asthma is not contagious like a cold or the flu. This condition affects the airways in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. It can develop at any age, and its symptoms are triggered by factors such as allergies or viral infections, but it cannot be spread through contact with someone who has it.³

Yes, asthma maybe be hereditary. It is thought that about three-fifths of asthma cases are hereditary, meaning that if someone has a parent with asthma or allergies, they are more likely to develop asthma themselves. Genetics are a key factor in increasing the likelihood of developing asthma, particularly if there is a family history of the condition.⁴

Cat hair itself does not directly cause asthma, but it can carry allergens that trigger asthma symptoms in people with asthma. Allergens in cat dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine can trigger reactions. When individuals inhale these allergens, their immune system may respond, leading to asthma symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties. Therefore, while cat hair may not be the primary cause, it can carry allergens that contribute to asthma in sensitive individuals.⁵

To control asthma, it's important to follow a few key steps:

• Avoid triggers: Identify your triggers (example: dust, smoke, pollen, or pet dander) and avoid them to prevent worsening of asthma
• Use medication: Inhalers are effective in managing asthma symptoms. It is important to use your inhalers as prescribed by your doctor.
• Stay active: Exercise is important, but make sure to avoid triggers during physical activity and consult your doctor before starting an new exercise regime.
• Schedule regular check-ups: Visit your healthcare provider consistently to monitor your asthma and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

By managing your medication, avoiding triggers, and following a plan, you can control asthma and lead a normal life.⁶

The exact reason why asthma occurs is not known. Several factors can increase the risk of developing asthma, such as:

• Family history: Having close relatives, such as parents or siblings, with asthma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Allergic conditions: Individuals with allergies like hay fever or eczema are at a higher risk of developing asthma.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to air pollution, tobacco smoke, dust, mold, and chemicals can contribute to a higher risk of developing asthma.
• Obesity: Excess weight or obesity can also increase the likelihood of asthma.
• Early life events: Factors like low birth weight or viral infections during early childhood may contribute to asthma risk.

These factors can interact in various ways to trigger asthma in some individuals.⁶

1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/treatment/
2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma
3. https://acaai.org/asthma/asthma-101/who-gets-asthma/children/
4. https://www.webmd.com/asthma/asthma-risk-factors
5. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cats-and-asthma#the-link
6. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma/