What is the relationship between the immune system and asthma?
Generally, asthma is characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, and the immune system contributes to or exacerbates this exaggerated inflammatory response. Allergens or irritants, even physical activity in some people, may trigger asthma. The cellular reactions that propagate an asthma attack are complex, but generally involve the over-aggressive release of inflammatory chemicals such as histamines and leukotrienes from certain immune cells.
Can you have the flu without upper respiratory symptoms?
The flu is characterized by upper respiratory tract involvement and may include lower respiratory tract involvement in advanced cases. Most of the time, the flu does cause some nasal or throat irritation, though it’s possible those symptoms may be mild and overshadowed by symptoms such as weakness, fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Most people who get the flu should expect some upper respiratory tract symptoms such as coughing, sore throat and nasal discharge.
What are tips to clear chest congestion?
The approach to chest congestion will depend on the etiology of the congestion. Congestion due to seasonal allergies may respond to antihistamine medications and avoidance of allergen exposure. If airway congestion is related to asthma, various medications may help; your doctor can help determine what approach is right for you. Common colds and the flu can causes chest congestion as well, and in most cases, this will clear on its own in a few days. If you experience prolonged chest congestion, you should speak with your doctor. N-acetylcysteine may serve as a mucolytic and help ease chest congestion in some cases. Maintaining healthy vitamin D blood levels may help ease the inflammatory tendency of the airways among those with asthma.
