Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.

For some, Asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.

Asthma can't be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Because asthma often changes over time, it's important that you work with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust your treatment as needed.

Risk Factors of Asthma

Factors that may increase your risk of Asthma include :

a) Having a blood relative with asthma, such as a parent or sibling.

b) Having another allergic condition, such as atopic dermatitis - which causes red, itchy skin - or hay fever - which causes a runny nose, congestion and itchy eyes.

c) Being overweight

d) Being a smoker

e) Exposure to secondhand smoke

f) Exposure to exhaust fumes or other types of pollution

g) Exposure to occupational triggers, such as chemicals used in farming, hairdressing and manufacturing.

Prevention of Asthma

You can reduce your risk of Asthma if you :

a) Follow your asthma action plan

---> With the help of your doctor write a detailed plan for taking medications and managing an asthma attack. Be sure to follow your plan.

Asthma is an ongoing condition that needs regular monitoring and treatment. Taking control of your treatment can make you feel more in control of your life.

b) Get vaccinated for influenza and pneumonia

---> Staying current with vaccinations can prevent flu and pneumonia from triggering asthma flare-ups.

c) Identify and avoid asthma triggers

---> A number of outdoor allergens and irritants - ranging from pollen and mold to cold air and air pollution - can trigger asthma attacks. Try to find out what causes or worsens your asthma, and take steps to avoid those triggers.

d) Monitor your breathing

---> You may learn to recognize warning signs of an impending attack, such as slight coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath.

But because your lung function may decrease before you notice any signs or symptoms, regularly measure and record your peak airflow with a home peak flow meter. A peak flow meter measures how hard you can breathe out.

e) Identify and treat attacks early

---> If you act quickly, you're less likely to have a severe attack. You also won't need as much medication to control your symptoms.

When your peak flow measurements decrease and alert you to an oncoming attack, take your medication as instructed. Also, immediately stop any activity that may have triggered the attack. If your symptoms don't improve, get medical help as directed in your action help.

f) Take your medication as prescribed

---> Don't change your medications without first talking to your doctor, even if your asthma seems to be improving. It's a good idea to bring your medications with you to each doctor visit, Your doctor can make sure you're using your medications correctly and taking the right dose.

g) Pay attention to increasing quick-relief inhaler use

---> If you find yourself relying on your quick-relief inhaler, such as albuterol, your asthma isn't under control. See your doctor about adjusting your treatment.

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