Can URTI Cause Asthma?

Are you constantly coughing, suffering from headaches, and feeling a little tired? These are the signs that you might be experiencing a respiratory infection.

It can also be from allergies, but upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.

URTIs, such as the common cold or flu, can lead to inflammation and irritation in the airways, which is why the airways can become sensitive and triggered. 

If you suffer from this condition, you can request a medical certificate by completing a questionnaire. The doctor will assess your concerns and provide you with a certificate directly to your device.

What is Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI)?

URTI stands for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. 

It refers to infections that affect the upper respiratory system, including the nose, sinuses, pharynx (throat), or larynx (voice box).

Common indicators of infections are coughing (possibly accompanied by yellow or green phlegm), wheezing and difficulty in breathing, chest discomfort or pain, muscle soreness, and headache

What causes these infections? If you touch a surface, shake hands with a person who is ill. Then, touch your mouth, eyes, or nose, causing germs to enter your body.

Most URTIs resolve within a week or two with rest, hydration, and treatment.

However, it can lead to complications, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of your lungs. It is chronic, so you live with it every day.

It causes tightening of the muscles around the airways, making breathing challenging.

While there’s no cure for asthma, proper treatment and medications can be managed effectively.

Long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, help reduce inflammation in the airways.

There are certain quick-relief medications available that provide immediate relief during asthma attacks. Discuss with healthcare providers to identify triggers, understand medications, and know when to seek emergency care.

Which drinks are beneficial for asthma? For relief, some herbal teas, such as ginger, green, black, eucalyptus, fennel, and licorice teas, have been studied for their potential to alleviate it’s symptoms.

They can decrease inflammation, relax respiratory muscles, and improve breathing, among other positive effects.

If you wish to know how allergens impact your health when you have asthma, you can read about it here.

Can URTIs cause Asthma?

Asthma causes inflammation in your airways. If you are suffering from certain infections, it can trigger asthma because it makes your airways even more inflamed.

Therefore, it is important to follow an action plan by doing these things:

• Note essential points so you know what to do when something triggers asthma.
• Using prescribed medications by a healthcare provider.
• Seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms worsen.

It’s worth noting that while URTIs can trigger asthma symptoms, not everyone with it will have the same response to these infections.

Some may experience more severe reactions than others.

Also Read: How to Prepare for Your Online Asthma Consultation

Conclusion

While URTI may not cause asthma, it can trigger asthma symptoms because of inflammation of the airways.

Some tips to remember are covering the mouth when you cough or sneeze and washing hands regularly using soap or a hand sanitizer.

Additionally, manage asthma effectively by taking preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated against flu or other infections.