Is bronchial asthma contagious?

Written by Wang Xiang Yu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 11, 2024
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Is bronchial asthma contagious? Bronchial asthma is not contagious; it is not an infectious disease. The exact causes of bronchial asthma are not very clear, primarily thought to be related to genetic and environmental factors. Bronchial asthma has a close relationship with genetics, meaning that if parents have asthma, their children and grandchildren might also develop bronchial asthma. The closer the familial relationship, the higher the chances of developing bronchial asthma compared to the general population. This genetic pattern can create the illusion to the general public that bronchial asthma is contagious, but it may be more closely related to genetics.

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Written by Xia Bao Jun
Pulmonology
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Consequences of worsening bronchial asthma

The consequences of exacerbated bronchial asthma can cause the patient to feel short of breath even at rest, exhibit orthopnea, and be able to speak only in single words or syllables. The patient may experience anxiety or irritability, sometimes accompanied by profuse sweating, and an increased respiratory rate which, if severe, can exceed 30 breaths per minute. There may also be activity of the respiratory muscles and signs of tracheal tugging, an increased heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute, which in severe cases can surpass 120 beats. Additionally, there is a decrease in blood oxygen saturation, which can drop below 60%.

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Pulmonology
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The causes of bronchial asthma

The causes of bronchial asthma are actually not very clear at present, but current research shows that bronchial asthma is mainly caused by genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors are relatively easier to understand, meaning if parents have a history of bronchial asthma, then their children, grandchildren, and other blood relatives may have a higher chance of developing bronchial asthma than the general population. Additionally, bronchial asthma is also related to environmental factors, such as air pollution, smoking, dust mites, pollen, etc.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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How to check for bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease. Patients primarily exhibit symptoms of episodic wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, which usually can be relieved with or without medication. Typically, during an attack, there is wheezing and audible stridor. A diagnosis can usually be made based on symptoms and medical history, as well as physical examination. However, for atypical patients, further tests may be necessary. Generally, the main tests for asthma patients are pulmonary function tests, which include provocation tests and relaxation tests, as well as the 24-hour peak expiratory flow variability. These tests are helpful for the definitive diagnosis of bronchial asthma.

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Is bronchial asthma serious?

The symptoms of bronchial asthma vary from person to person, as does its severity. Some patients may have very mild symptoms, only showing slight chest tightness and mild coughing. Other patients may experience very severe symptoms such as respiratory failure, loss of consciousness, cardiac arrest, and sudden death. The clinical presentations are completely different. Therefore, bronchial asthma can be considered a suppressive disease, meaning everyone's symptoms are different, and one cannot generalize; most patients are relatively mild.

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Can people with bronchial asthma eat chicken?

Patients with bronchial asthma can appropriately eat some chicken, as chicken contains proteins, trace elements, and other minerals that can meet the body's demand for various nutrients and enhance its resistance. Additionally, chicken is a warming and tonic food, which helps to nourish the body and strengthen the patient's resistance, facilitating faster recovery from the illness. However, it is important to consume it in moderation and not eat too much at once, as overeating can burden the gastrointestinal tract and lead to indigestion. Therefore, it is advised to always eat in moderate amounts, regardless of the food type. Also, keep warm, avoid cold drafts, do not eat spicy, greasy, raw, or irritating foods. Furthermore, proper physical exercise should be maintained to enhance physique and improve resistance.