What Is the Relationship between the Respiratory System and Asthma?

The respiratory system and asthma are directly linked because the latter affects the former. Asthma is the constriction of a person’s airways due to inflammation. It is an allergic reaction to an inhaled allergen, and it is seen in people of all ages, genders, and nationalities. In worst-case scenarios, an asthma attack can nearly or completely block a person’s airways, leading to hospitalization or sometimes death. If asthma is suspected, a person should see a doctor for medication to prevent full-blown attacks.

A common reaction to an allergen is swelling. This swelling can take place in the throat if an allergen is inhaled and the person is particularly sensitive to it. Genetics plays a role in how sensitive a person is; for example, people who have hay fever allergies, which can be inherited, are more likely to have asthma. In addition to throat swelling, the respiratory system and asthma are linked because an attack that constricts the throat limits air from getting into and leaving the lungs.

This relationship between respiratory system and asthma is seen in millions of people around the world. More than 300 million are estimated to be affected by asthma, with at least 250,000 asthma-related deaths occurring every year. Some studies show that there is potential to prevent children from developing asthma up to a certain age. This may be done by ridding the home of certain allergens, though it was found that particular allergens were best off being introduced to children to avoid problems in the future.

The respiratory system and asthma are not a good mix because of how dangerous the disorder can be. When the lungs are nearly blocked, it is difficult to inhale, but it is even harder to exhale. Due to this, a person who has a severe asthma attack will wheeze in air, exhale, and proceed to wheeze in even less air because he or she could not exhale all of the last inhalation. This is dangerous in more ways than one because there is a lack of oxygen and too much carbon dioxide and eventually the person will not be able to breathe at all.

A health professional can administer a test to see if a person has asthma. Many deaths can be prevented if more people affected by asthma are diagnosed with the condition and prescribed medication. This medication must usually be carried on one’s person in case an attack occurs away from home.