One of the few health conditions commonly shown in media, asthma is something that affects so many people, across every age range. Affecting the airways of the lungs, it's a long-term disease that causes them to both constrict and swell up, which causes symptoms like difficulty breathing, excessive coughing, and wheezing. Depending on the severity, it may be a simple annoyance, but some asthma attacks do merit a trip to the hospital. To better understand this condition, here's what you need to know. 

What Is Asthma?

As mentioned above, asthma affects the lungs' airways. It can be caused by genetics or environmental conditions. Those exposed to allergens and irritants like mold, wood dust, tobacco smoke, or harsh chemicals have been known to develop asthma even if no one else in their family has it. 

When someone with asthma experiences a flare-up of these symptoms, that's known as an "asthma attack." Just like the causes of the disease itself, the causes of a flare-up differ for everyone. Generally, an attack occurs in the presence of the previously mentioned allergens and irritants, but it can also happen when the weather changes or during exercise.

How Is It Treated?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma. However, there are treatments. The most popular or commonly seen treatment in the media is the inhaler, which is filled with a medicine that a patient breathes into their lungs. However, that's not the only kind. If you visit a hospital after an asthma attack, a doctor might prescribe a pill. 

These treatments can be further broken down into "long-term control" and "quick relief." The ideal medication will depend on your history with asthma and whether or not it's progressing or diminishing. For example, if you used to take only a quick relief inhaler but have been experiencing more attacks that land you in the hospital than before, you may need to start switching over to a longer-term solution that you take even when if you aren't experiencing any symptoms. 

Whether you're already asthmatic or unsure you may have asthma, the doctors at Affinity Health Group can help. Located in Monroe, LA, this hospital has served the local community for more than 15 years. Other than primary care, they have a multitude of other specialties, such as behavioral health, dermatology, gynecology, pediatrics, and more. You can learn about everything this health group can do for you on their website, but if you have questions, call (318) 807-4900.