hengitystieherkkyyttä

Hengitystieherkkyys, often translated as airway hypersensitivity or airway hyperresponsiveness, refers to an exaggerated and potentially abnormal reaction of the airways to various stimuli. These stimuli can include allergens like pollen or dust mites, irritants such as smoke or cold air, and even exercise or emotional stress. When exposed to these triggers, individuals with hengitystieherkkyys experience a narrowing of their airways, known as bronchoconstriction. This narrowing can manifest as symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

The underlying mechanisms of hengitystieherkkyys involve inflammation and increased sensitivity of the airway smooth muscle. While not a disease in itself, it is a common characteristic of several respiratory conditions, most notably asthma. In asthma, chronic inflammation makes the airways more prone to constricting in response to stimuli that would not affect healthy individuals. However, hengitystieherkkyys can also be present in other conditions like allergic rhinitis and even in individuals without a diagnosed respiratory disease, although it is usually less pronounced. Diagnosis often involves spirometry tests, which measure lung function before and after exposure to a bronchoconstricting agent. Treatment typically focuses on managing the underlying condition and avoiding known triggers.