People who suffer from asthma face a tough challenge as it is a chronic disease that affects breathing and causes inflammation in the airways.

The symptoms of asthma can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by a variety of factors such as smoke, fumes, pollen, and dust. However, many individuals may not know that catching a common cold can also lead to severe asthma attacks.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a respiratory disease that affects the bronchial tubes in the lungs. These tubes become inflamed and narrow which makes it difficult for air to pass through them. This results in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Asthma can be triggered by a variety of factors including pollen, dust, molds, and pet dander. In addition, certain foods, stress, and exercise can also trigger asthma attacks.

What causes a cold?

A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract including the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx. There are over 200 different types of viruses that can cause a cold, which makes it difficult to prevent or treat.

The common cold is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching an object that has been contaminated with the virus.

What is the connection between colds and severe asthma?

When an individual with asthma catches a cold, the immune system responds by attacking the virus and causing inflammation in the airways.

Related Article Why do some colds trigger severe asthma?

This inflammation can make it difficult for air to pass through the already narrowed airways, leading to severe asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Furthermore, individuals with severe asthma may have a weakened immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infections such as a cold. This can lead to longer and more severe asthma symptoms.

How can individuals with asthma prevent colds?

Since colds are caused by viruses, it can be difficult to prevent them entirely. However, there are some steps that individuals with asthma can take to reduce their risk of catching a cold:.

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water
2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick
3. Cover the nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, and phones
5. Avoid touching the face, especially the nose and mouth
6. Get a flu shot every year to reduce the risk of catching influenza, which can also trigger asthma attacks

How can individuals with asthma manage symptoms during a cold?

Even with prevention efforts, individuals with asthma may still catch a cold. To manage symptoms during a cold, it is important for individuals with asthma to:.

1. Take asthma medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider
2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
3. Rest and avoid vigorous exercise
4. Use a humidifier to moisten the air
5. Use a saline nasal spray to relieve congestion
6. Try over-the-counter cold remedies such as decongestants or cough suppressants, but only with a healthcare provider’s approval

Conclusion

Catching a cold can lead to severe asthma symptoms in individuals with asthma. While it can be difficult to entirely prevent colds, there are steps that individuals with asthma can take to reduce their risk of catching the virus.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma can manage symptoms during a cold by staying hydrated, resting, and using a humidifier or over-the-counter remedies. It is important for individuals with asthma to work closely with their healthcare provider in creating a personalized management plan to effectively manage asthma symptoms.