Even scarier, if it’s not managed properly, it can become life-threatening. In fact, statistics show that more than 3,000 people died from it in just one year.
Another scary notion is that there’s currently no cure for it. There are just lifestyle changes and medications that can be used to manage it.
So just what is this mysterious "it" that affects so many?
"It" is asthma, a condition that can flare up at any time regardless of gender or age.
Asthma is a lung disease that causes both an inflammation and constriction of the airways leading to the lungs, as well as a buildup of mucus. This makes the movement of air to and from the lungs more than difficult.
As a result, those with asthma wheeze. In addition, they can experience tightness of the chest, shortness of breath, and morning or nighttime coughing.
Here’s the thing: some have a greater risk of developing asthma than others. Check out these five risk factors that increase the chance of developing asthma.
1. It's All in the Family
Asthma can be an inherited thing. In other words, if a person's parents or other blood relatives have it, they might develop it too.
Researchers have studied this concept to determine if and why this link occurs. In truth, the link itself can be confusing. For example, one study of identical twins found that if one twin suffers from asthma, the other twin only has a one in three chance of developing asthma.
That said, the reason for the genetic link between blood relatives and asthma is just that- simple genetics. However, this risk can be increased by being exposed to asthma triggers (like things individuals are allergic to or chemicals in the workplace).
2. Battling the Bulge
Weight and asthma go hand in hand. In fact, a review published in the Journal of Asthma and Allergy reports that asthma statistics are highest in obese adults, with 12 percent of obese adults suffering from asthma. However, just over seven percent of normal weight individuals suffer from asthma.
Statistics on overweight children and asthma are equally alarming. Everyday Health reports that one study concluded that obese children and teens may be twice as likely to become asthmatic compared to children who are not obese.
In addition, research shows that overweight adults with asthma may be five times more likely to be hospitalized due to asthma compared to those who are not grossly overweight and suffering from asthma.
It appears that weight loss can alleviate symptoms of this condition. In fact, studies show that losing weight (for those who are obese) can be linked to a 48 percent to 100 percent alleviation of symptoms of asthma and the need for medication to treat the condition. In addition, lungs appear to function better once weight is lost.
3. Chemical Reactions
Occupational asthma is asthma that develops as a result of exposure to chemicals, gas, dust and fumes in the workplace. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) reports that this type of asthma has become the most common lung disease seen in the workplace in developed nations. In fact, it is thought that nearly 15 percent of asthma cases diagnosed in the United States may be linked to workplace exposure to toxins.
Unfortunately, it is often misdiagnosed as bronchitis. This is concerning in that a correct diagnosis is necessary in order to treat the condition as well as to take steps needed to prevent permanent lung damage.
The AAAAI says that genetics are thought to play a role in the development of this type of asthma. In other words, the chances of developing this type of asthma are greater if it runs in someone's family. This is especially true if a family member has allergies to the same thing that’s causing a person's symptoms (like latex).
That said, anyone can develop this type of asthma, though it can take months or years for symptoms to appear. That’s because it takes the body time to produce allergic antibodies and other immune symptom responses to a given trigger.
If diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to communicate with the employer. This will help in developing a plan to remove triggers or unprotected chemical exposure from the daily routine.
4. Allergies Galore
Experts say that there is a link between allergies and asthma. That’s because irritants can serve as triggers for an asthma attack.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “an allergic response occurs when immune system proteins (antibodies) mistakenly identify a harmless substance, such as tree pollen, as an invader. In an attempt to protect your body from the substance, antibodies bind to the allergen. The chemicals released by your immune system lead to allergy signs and symptoms, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes or skin reactions. For some people, this same reaction also affects the lungs and airways, leading to asthma symptoms.”
This is why asthma and allergies go together. In people who are asthmatic, the airways are already prone to inflammation. So merge these two issues and there's a double whammy.
5. Butt Nothing... Up In Smoke
This one is a given, but it’s still worthy of mention. Smoking creates a lose-lose situation when it comes to asthma.
According to Partners Healthcare Asthma Center, typical breathing difficulty associated with smoking creates a "double jeopardy" situation when combined with asthma. Add that to the fact that most people who develop asthma after the age of 50 are current or former cigarette smokers.
And don’t forget about the dangers of secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can trigger symptoms of asthma because smoke in itself is an irritant.
This is extremely concerning when it comes to children. In fact, Partners Healthcare Asthma Center reports that “second-hand smoke exposure in the home can contribute to a child's developing asthma in the first place.”
However, there are changes that can be made to alleviate symptoms. In fact, smokers who have asthmatic children report fewer symptoms when they stop smoking in the house.