Asthma is associated with the respiratory system. It occurs when the airways become narrow and swell, causing mucus formation. These factors, combined, make breathing difficult, triggering coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. However, the symptoms of asthma may vary from person to person. For some, it may not hinder their daily activities, but it could pose a life-threatening asthma attack for others. This article highlights the symptoms, triggers, and home remedies of asthma.

Symptoms
Symptoms of asthma may vary from person to person. Some may have frequent asthma attacks and some may only face symptoms when they are physically exerted. However, the below symptoms compile the list of signs that are associated with this respiratory condition.

-Shortness of breath
-Coughing at night
-Tightness in chest, pain, or pressure
-Wheezing when exhaling
-Trouble sleeping because of these signs
-Adverse effects of cold and flu
-Asthma attacks when exercising, especially in cold and dry air
-Low tolerance to substances like pollen, mold spores, dust, and common allergens

Causes of asthma
While some develop asthma in childhood, others develop this condition as an adult. While there’s no specific cause to claim as of yet, we can look at factors that contribute to the health condition.

• Allergens
  Some people may be over-sensitive to allergens like dust, pollens, and pollution. For instance, many people are triggered with a sneezing fit on waking up incase any dust particles get near them.
• Occupational factors
  When exposed to certain chemicals, particles, gasses, or fumes regularly, one may develop respiratory issues, one of which includes asthma.
• Genetics
  If two or more members of the family are affected by asthma, it’s quite possible for you to catch this health condition.
• Respiratory issues
  Complications related to the respiratory tract caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can have an intense impact on children’s developing lungs. Weakened lungs or recurring respiratory issues can cause lasting health conditions like asthma.

Home remedies for asthma
Asthma is a condition that one can’t cure completely but can definitely manage the symptoms.

• Breathing technique
  There are many breathing techniques that asthma patients must try out to increase their lung capacity. This will strengthen their lungs and make breathing easier over a period. The Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) is quite popular among asthma patients. This technique includes breathing in and out of the nose, which keeps the airways from drying out and also reduces the chances of inflammation. Another popular breathing technique is the Papworth method.
• Ginger and garlic
  These two spices are packed with anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve an inflamed throat and airway. Besides, some studies suggest that these two spices also claim to gradually improve symptoms of asthma.
• Omega-3 oils
  Foods rich in this healthy fat are known to help people with severe asthma symptoms and improve lung function. Opt for natural sources of omega-3 oils like flax seeds, chia seeds, olive oil, mackerel, salmon, and tuna.
• Caffeine
  Intake of caffeine can help relieve respiratory muscles; hence, improving the function of airways for up to four hours post consumption.
• Honey
  Your herbal tea or chamomile tea before bedtime can accommodate some organic honey to help relieve the airways from inflammation. A relaxed throat and airway can widen the airway passage, inducing better breathing patterns.
• Eucalyptus oil
  This essential oil provides relief from the symptoms of an asthma attack. Use it in your steam inhaler, or add it to your air purifying filter, or potpourri to manage the impact of dry air. One can also add some of this oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam to help relieve inflamed airways.
• Yoga
  A good balance of physical and breathing exercises can help train the lungs to improve its capacity, which in turn improves breathing. Yoga is a great way to improve your tolerance to physical exertion and breathe better while at it.
• Keep BMI in check
  This is one of the essential points to remember for people with asthma. Having an imbalanced BMI can put pressure on the airways, causing them to narrow down and making it more difficult to breathe. Include foods like citrus fruits, avocados, berries, sweet potatoes, and vegetables in your daily regime to stock up on antioxidants and essential vitamins.
• Eliminate triggers
  Knowing your triggers will help you dodge them, and that’s one step closer to managing your asthma symptoms. Dry air, high pollen count, dust, and pollution are some common asthma triggers. These can easily be avoided by not stepping out when it’s cold, checking the pollen count before going on a stroll, and not being around when someone is vacuuming or dusting. Another alternative is to wear a breathable face mask during any of these activities.