What Causes Asthma? Understanding the Root Triggers

You are not alone if you have ever felt breathless while climbing stairs or experienced sudden wheezing without warning. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects people of all ages. According to a 2023 report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 350 lakh Indians have asthma, with a rising number of cases seen in urban areas due to pollution and lifestyle factors.

A study published in Dr Batra’s® Coffee Table Book described a patient from Vadodara, Gujarat, who battled recurrent colds, sneezing, and bronchitis for years and was dependent on antihistamines for relief. After undergoing a Pulmonary Function Test and starting personalised homeopathic treatment, the patient remained symptom-free for 11 months and returned to a healthier, worry-free life

This blog will help you understand the root causes of asthma, how to identify its triggers, and how you can manage it better with safe and personalised solutions

What You Should Know About Asthma

What Triggers Asthma?

Asthma is triggered when airways become inflamed or narrowed, making breathing difficult. The most common causes include:

• Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander
• Respiratory infections
• Physical exertion or exercise
• Cold air and sudden weather changes
• Stress or strong emotions

These triggers lead to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Understanding these causes can help in avoiding asthma attacks.

Top Causes of Asthma

• Genetics : Family history increases your risk.
• Immune System Imbalance : Overreaction to harmless triggers.
• Pollution : Indoor (cooking fumes) and outdoor (vehicle smoke).
• Allergens : Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold.
• Respiratory Infections : Colds or bronchitis can trigger symptoms.
• Weather Changes : Especially cold air or sudden shifts.
• Exercise : Physical exertion can narrow airways.
• Stress : Strong emotions may trigger attacks.
• Smoking : Includes passive smoke exposure.
• Obesity : Extra weight can worsen asthma.
• Food Triggers : Sulfites, shellfish, or dairy in sensitive individuals.

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma causes airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to breathing difficulties. Symptoms can vary but commonly include:

• Shortness of Breath : Especially during activity or at night.
• Wheezing : Whistling sound while exhaling.
• Chronic Cough : Often worse at night or after exertion.
• Chest Tightness : Pressure or heaviness in the chest.
• Frequent Colds : Colds that worsen or linger.
• Fatigue : Poor sleep due to night-time symptoms.

Can Genetics or Immunity Play a Role?

Yes, asthma often runs in families. Genetics play a major role, with heritability estimated between 50% and 90%. It is also linked to immune system overreactions to harmless triggers. In severe cases, if left unmanaged, asthma can be life-threatening. In 2023, India reported nearly 20,000 asthma-related deaths (WHO).

Types of Asthma You Should Know

1. Allergic Asthma

   Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander.

   Often linked with other allergic conditions such as eczema or hay fever.

2. Non-Allergic Asthma

   Not caused by allergens. Triggers include stress, cold air, exercise, smoke, or infections.

   Usually it develops later in life and may be harder to control.

3. Occupational Asthma

   Caused by exposure to irritants at the workplace like chemicals, dust, or fumes.

   Common in industries like cleaning, painting, baking, and farming.

4. Cough-Variant Asthma (CVA)

   A dry, persistent cough is the main (and often only) symptom.

   No wheezing or shortness of breath, which makes it harder to diagnose.

5. Aspirin-Induced Asthma (AIA)

   Triggered by taking aspirin or other NSAIDs like ibuprofen.

   Symptoms may include nasal congestion, sinus issues, and asthma attacks.

Homeopathy for Asthma – A Natural Approach

Homeopathy addresses the root cause of asthma, offering long-term relief by boosting your body’s natural immunity. It focuses on:

• Balancing immune response to allergens
• Reducing the frequency and severity of attacks
• Offering personalised remedies based on triggers

Homeopathic remedies are safe, natural, non-addictive, and do not cause side effects like drowsiness.

They are especially effective for managing bronchial asthma, the most common form in India.

Homeopathy offers a safe and natural alternative to treat asthma from the inside out.

Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

Modern urban lifestyles are significantly contributing to asthma. Common aggravators include:

• Indoor air pollution (incense sticks, cooking fumes)
• Outdoor air pollution (vehicular emissions, industrial smoke)
• Smoking or second-hand smoke
• Obesity or sedentary lifestyle

Tips to Manage or Prevent Asthma

• Identify and avoid your triggers
• Use air purifiers at home if pollution is high
• Practice breathing exercises like pranayama
• Maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet
• Regular physical activity with doctor approval
• Follow your treatment plan consistently
• Avoid food you are allergic to
• Have light and early dinner
• Reduce weight
• Wear masks in polluted areas

What to Do During an Asthma Attack

1. Stay Calm: Try not to panic. Sit upright and focus on slow, steady breathing.
2. Use Your Inhaler: Take one puff of your reliever inhaler (usually blue), every 30–60 seconds, up to 10 puffs.
3. Seek Fresh Air: Move away from smoke, dust, or other triggers. Try to get fresh air or open a window.
4. Call Emergency Help: Call emergency services immediately if there's no relief after 10 puffs or symptoms get worse.
5. Repeat Inhaler if Needed: You can repeat the inhaler dose if help hasn’t arrived after 15 minutes.

How Dr Batra’s® Can Help You with treating asthma

At Dr Batra’s®, we don’t just treat symptoms, we treat people. With over 40 years of medical excellence, we offer:

• Personalised care: Customised homeopathic treatments for asthma management
• Effective management: Targeted plans based on trigger patterns and lifestyle
• Expert homeopathy: Experienced doctors who specialise in chronic respiratory care
• Comprehensive approach: Guidance on breathing techniques, fitness, and stress
• High success rate: Thousands of patients have shown significant improvements
• Trusted by thousands: A name you can count on for asthma and respiratory issues
• Lung Test for Asthma: Doctors use a spirometer to check how well your lungs function and confirm an asthma diagnosis.
• Holistic care: Focusing on long-term wellness, not just temporary relief
• Convenience: Online consultations and clinic visits available across India

Conclusion

• Asthma affects over 35 million Indians, and its causes vary from genetics to pollution
• Common triggers include allergens, cold air, and stress
• Managing asthma early prevents severe complications and enhances quality of life
• Homeopathy offers long-term, side-effect-free asthma relief
• Dr Batra’s^® provides expert, personalised care to treat asthma from the root

Sources

• Health Advisory on Air Pollution
• Asthma
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare - India