Other Health Issues: Finally, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause symptoms of asthma. According to the Mayo Clinic, GERD is a condition that causes stomach acids to back up into the throat. One reason for this is that the hydrochloric acid associated with GERD makes inflammation of the airways more severe, which in turn makes symptoms of asthma worse.
Who Gets It?
Genetics: Though anyone can develop asthma at any age, some have a higher risk than others. For starters, asthma can be inherited. This means that if there is a family history, the risk of developing asthma is higher.
Obesity: Weight is also thought to be associated with asthma. In fact, Everyday Health reports that one study concluded that kids and teens who are grossly overweight could be two times as likely to become asthmatic compared to children who are not obese. Further, research shows that adults who are overweight and asthmatic could be five times more likely to spend time in a hospital as a result of this condition compared to those who are not obese and also suffer from asthma.
Tobacco Use: It’s no surprise that smoking and being around active smokers may also serve as triggers. In fact, Partners Asthma Center says that “persons with asthma who smoke cigarettes are in ‘double jeopardy…’ they risk episodes of breathing difficulty due to asthma on top of everyday shortness of breath from…cigarette smoke-induced lung diseases, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.” In addition, those who develop asthma after the age of 50 are usually current or past smokers.