Primary Causes for Adult Onset Asthma

Most people think that asthma is an illness that is a person has their entire life. However, the truth is that there are factors that contribute to the development of asthma over time. Most people develop asthma when they are young, but symptoms may not who until you are an adult. Called adult onset asthma, there are a wealth of cases where people did not present asthma symptoms until they were in their 50s or older.

The following are some of the primary causes for asthma to present in adults.

Allergies

Allergies results in roughly 30% of the occurrence of adult onset asthma. Regular exposure to allergens can trigger asthma symptoms. If you regular suffer from allergies, it is better to be cautious about the possibility that it could lead to the presentation of asthma symptoms.

Hormones

Like allergies, hormone fluctuations can trigger asthma symptoms, particularly in women. For adults, the times where hormone changes are likely to cause asthma symptoms to appear are pregnancy and menopause. If you find that you are experiencing shortness of breath during either of these phases, it would be best to check with an asthma specialist to see if the issue goes beyond just a hormone imbalance.

Illness

Different types of infections and viruses can trigger asthma symptoms, and it is likely more difficult to detect during these times. Even illnesses as innocuous sounds as a bad cold can result in asthma symptoms appearing.

Smoke

Surprisingly, smoking is not a cause for the illness, but it can provide symptoms if they have already presented. This is true for smokers and those who are regularly exposed to second-and smoke. You should probably be consulting with a pulmonary specialist if you smoke or if you are frequently exposed to smoke. Shortness of breath could be caused by something more insidious than adult onset asthma.

If you have been experiencing problems with breathing, but have not been diagnosed with asthma, that does not mean you do not have it. Call or schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today and get comprehensive testing and treatment for your asthma.

How to Live Life with Asthma

There may have been a day and age when a diagnosis of asthma could stop any man, woman, or child in their tracks. Today, however, living a full life with asthma is not an impossible task, especially if you get the help of a trained, knowledgeable allergist in Glendale, AZ. So take three deep breaths and check out these tips.

First Breath: Have a Professional in Your Corner

Actually, the first step in living life beyond asthma is making scheduled visits to an allergist who is trained to correctly guide you and is familiar with the ins and outs of asthma. Find an allergist in Glendale who knows the causes and facts of the illness and how to help you best manage life so that you will thrive.

Second Breath: Create a Plan for Treatment

When you meet with a board certified allergist, listen carefully to their instructions. They may recommend you incorporate the following into your treatment plan: medications (quick-relief and ongoing), immunotherapy injections for allergies, anti-IgE treatments, and vaccines.

A plan should have some action to it, a "what to do in case of an attack". Some circumstances are worsened by differing situations. Having an awareness of what may trigger your asthma will empower you to live the life you want.

Third Breath: Illness Reduction

Many times, asthma can be triggered by respiratory illnesses and/or pollutants in the air. Taking good care of your body and avoiding colds, the flu, and various bronchial infections will add an extra layer of protection to the care of your lungs.

Planning to Live the Life You Deserve

Having a plan in place can help you overcome many obstacles presented by asthma. Things that would otherwise be difficult (such as traveling, exercise, or pregnancy) can become not just manageable but no problem at all.

If you are ready to discuss ways to live a full life - in spite of asthma - call or schedule an appointment today with a specialist at the Adult & Pediatric Allergy Associates , P.C.  Professional allergists, helping the Glendale, AZ area breathe a little easier.