• Published on: May 04, 2022
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Asthma - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

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There are many potential causes of asthma, including genetics, allergies, and air pollution. Symptoms can vary from mild shortness of breath to severe attacks that make it difficult to breathe. Asthma is diagnosed with a physical exam and by testing lung function. Treatment typically includes a combination of medications and lifestyle changes.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma is caused by environmental factors, such as smoke, dust, and pet dander, and by genetic factors. It is diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam and may be confirmed with tests that measure how well you breathe. Treatment includes medications to open the airways and control inflammation and avoid triggers. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing.

The cause of asthma is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Risk factors for asthma include exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, pets, and dust mites. Asthma is diagnosed based on your symptoms and by doing a breathing test called spirometry. Treatment for asthma includes using medication (such as inhalers) to open the airways and prevent attacks, as well as avoiding triggers.

Common symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go. Asthma is typically diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and medical history. Treatment for asthma includes medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, as well as lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding triggers.

The main symptom of asthma is wheezing. This is a high-pitched sound that you hear when you breathe out. Other symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. Asthma can occur at any age but it most often starts during childhood or early adulthood. There is no cure for asthma, but it can be controlled with medicines and by avoiding things that trigger an attack. Treatment options include bronchodilators (drugs that open up the airways), and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Asthma has many potential causes, including genetics, allergies, and exposure to environmental factors such as air pollution. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. A diagnosis of asthma is made based on a person's medical history and a physical examination. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for asthma; it is typically managed with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Some people with asthma also require regular use of an inhaler to keep their symptoms under control. Living with asthma can be challenging at times, but most people can lead full and active lives if they take the necessary steps to manage their condition

The cause of asthma is not known, but it is thought to involve both environmental and genetic factors. Cigarette smoke, air pollution, dust mites, animal dander, and cockroaches can all trigger asthma attacks. Diagnosis of asthma is made based on medical history and physical examination. Lung function tests (spirometry) are also often done. Treatment includes medications such as bronchodilators to open the airways and steroids to reduce inflammation, as well as lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding triggers

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the causes and symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person. However, some of the most common causes of asthma include exposure to allergens (such as pet dander, dust mites, or pollen), respiratory infections, air pollution, and smoke. Symptoms of asthma can include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options for asthma may include medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, along with lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers and exercising regularly.

There is not one answer to this question as asthma can be caused by a variety of things, including allergies, genetics, smoke, and fumes. However, some of the most common symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment

Asthma is characterized by airway hyper-responsiveness, mucous production, and remodeling. It is a common disease, affecting about 300 million people worldwide. The cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The diagnosis of asthma is based on symptoms and the results of pulmonary function tests. Treatment for asthma includes medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and leukotriene modifiers, as well as lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking and avoiding triggers.

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Monkeypox

Monkeypox Virus Symptoms: Early Signs, Disease Progression, and When to Seek Care

Monkeypox, now commonly referred to as mpox, is a viral infection that has gained global attention due to outbreaks beyond traditionally affected regions. Understanding monkeypox virus symptoms is essential for early detection, timely isolation and prevention of further spread.

According to the World Health Organization and Indian public health authorities, awareness of symptom patterns plays a critical role in controlling outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.

What Is the Monkeypox Virus?

Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus family, which also includes smallpox. While generally less severe than smallpox, monkeypox can still cause significant illness and discomfort.

The virus spreads primarily through close physical contact.

 

Incubation Period of Monkeypox

After exposure, symptoms typically appear within:

  • 5 to 21 days

  • most commonly 6 to 13 days

Individuals may feel well during this period but can become infectious once symptoms begin.

 

Early Monkeypox Virus Symptoms

Fever

Fever is usually the first symptom and may be:

  • sudden in onset

  • moderate to high grade

  • accompanied by chills

Fever signals the start of systemic infection.

 

Headache and Body Aches

Patients often experience:

  • severe headache

  • muscle aches

  • back pain

These symptoms resemble many viral illnesses.

 

Fatigue and Weakness

Marked tiredness and low energy levels are common and may limit daily activities.

 

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are a distinguishing feature of monkeypox.

Common sites include:

  • neck

  • armpits

  • groin

This helps differentiate monkeypox from chickenpox or smallpox.

Development of Monkeypox Rash

The skin rash usually appears:

  • 1 to 3 days after fever onset

It may begin on the face or genital area and spread to other parts of the body.

 

Stages of Monkeypox Rash

The rash progresses through well-defined stages:

Macules

Flat red spots on the skin.

Papules

Raised, firm bumps.

Vesicles

Fluid-filled blisters.

Pustules

Pus-filled lesions that are painful.

Scabs

Lesions crust over and eventually fall off.

Complete healing occurs once scabs detach.

 

Distribution of Rash

Rash commonly affects:

  • face

  • hands and feet

  • mouth

  • genital and anal areas

The number of lesions can vary widely.

 

Pain and Discomfort

Rash lesions may be:

  • painful

  • itchy during healing

Pain severity differs between individuals.

 

Other Possible Symptoms

Additional symptoms may include:

  • sore throat

  • cough

  • nasal congestion

These reflect upper respiratory involvement.

 

Duration of Illness

Monkeypox symptoms typically last:

  • 2 to 4 weeks

Recovery occurs gradually as lesions heal.

 

Who Is at Higher Risk of Severe Illness?

Higher risk groups include:

  • children

  • pregnant women

  • individuals with weakened immunity

  • people with chronic illness

Early care is crucial in these groups.

 

Complications of Monkeypox

Though uncommon, complications may include:

  • secondary bacterial skin infections

  • dehydration

  • pneumonia

  • eye involvement

Prompt medical guidance reduces risk.

 

How Monkeypox Is Transmitted

Transmission occurs through:

  • direct skin-to-skin contact

  • contact with lesions or bodily fluids

  • respiratory droplets during close contact

  • contaminated clothing or bedding

Understanding transmission helps prevent spread.

 

When to Seek Medical Care

Seek medical evaluation if:

  • fever is followed by rash

  • lymph nodes become swollen

  • rash appears in genital or facial areas

Early diagnosis supports isolation and care.

 

Diagnosis and Testing

Diagnosis may involve:

  • clinical examination

  • laboratory testing of lesion samples

Public health authorities guide testing protocols.

 

Prevention and Control Measures

Preventive steps include:

  • avoiding close contact with infected individuals

  • maintaining good hand hygiene

  • isolating during illness

  • following public health guidance

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk groups.

 

Role of Public Awareness

Awareness of symptoms:

  • enables early detection

  • reduces stigma

  • supports timely care

WHO emphasises community education in outbreak control.

 

Conclusion

Monkeypox virus symptoms typically begin with fever, body aches and swollen lymph nodes, followed by a characteristic rash that progresses through defined stages. While most cases are self-limiting, early recognition, medical evaluation and isolation are essential to prevent complications and reduce transmission. Staying informed and acting promptly protects both individual and public health.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Mpox (Monkeypox) Clinical and Public Health Guidance

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Emerging Viral Infections Reports

  • National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), India – Monkeypox Advisories

  • Lancet – Clinical Features and Outcomes of Mpox

  • NITI Aayog – Public Health Preparedness and Infectious Disease Control

See all

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