Breathe Better PH | Frequently Asked Questions

Avoiding asthma flare-ups means knowing the signs and symptoms, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding triggers¹². Though it varies with each person, some common triggers include:

• Air pollution and irritants
• Airborne allergens, such as dust, mold, pollen, pet dander, or cockroach waste
• Cold air
• Exercise
• Respiratory infections 
• Certain medications, like pain relief medications
• Stress or heightened emotions
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 
• Sulfites and food preservatives, such as those in dried fruit, beer, and wine

Asthma typically manifests before the age of 5. However, it can also happen at any age, even during adulthood. Around half of those with the condition experienced their symptoms by the age of 10.

Though it develops in childhood, asthma is rarely outgrown. It can even manifest for the first time in adulthood. Though lung and immune function can improve with age, asthma and sensitivity to triggers may still persist well into adulthood.

Because lung and immune function can decrease with age, this can also affect asthma symptoms.

This condition is incurable, but it can be managed well with the right treatment plan, through the use of different types of inhalers for asthma, oral medications, and avoiding triggers.

Though it cannot be prevented, it can be well managed with the right treatment plan.

A person having an asthma attack will have coughing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and wheezing when they cough or even breathe.

Learn more about asthma and COPD through these resources by Breathe Better PH.