In the 'Symptoms - Respiratory' section of our in-depth questionnaire we ask the following question about asthma:
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Asthma
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Your answer |
...indicates |
...and suggests |
| 1. |
"Never had it / don't know" |
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| 2. |
"Probably had it/minor episode(s) now resolved" |
History of asthma |
A risk factor |
| 3. |
"Major episode(s) now resolved" |
History of asthma |
A risk factor |
| 4. |
"Current minor problem" |
Asthma |
A pre-existing condition |
| 5. |
"Current major problem" |
Asthma |
A pre-existing condition |
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Your answer will affect the likelihoods of the conditions below.
Any answers in green reduce the likelihood of the condition.
GLOSSARY
Asthma (Asthmatic)
A lung disorder marked by attacks of breathing difficulty, wheezing, coughing, and thick mucus coming from the lungs. The episodes may be triggered by breathing foreign substances (allergens) or pollutants, infection, vigorous exercise, or emotional stress. Extrinsic Asthma is triggered by pollen, chemicals or some other external agent; Intrinsic Asthma is triggered by boggy membranes, congested tissues, or other native causes… even adrenalin stress or exertion.
Gastric Reflux Disease (Gastric Reflux, Gastroesophageal Reflux, Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease, GERD)
A common relapsing condition affecting approximately 10% of the U.S. population and caused by an abnormal exposure of the lower esophagus to refluxed gastric contents, causing irritation and injury to the esophageal tissues. GERD develops as a result of relaxations of the transient lower esophageal sphincter. Typical presenting symptoms are heartburn, an epigastric burning sensation and acid regurgitation. However, some patients may present with atypical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)
A band of muscle around the bottom of the esophagus where it meets the stomach. The LES opens after a person swallows to let food enter the stomach and then immediately closes to prevent regurgitation of the stomach contents, including gastric acid. It then maintains this pressure barrier until food is swallowed again.
Last updated: May 10, 2007
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