According to WHO, Asthma is a public health problem not just for high-income countries. The disease occurs in all countries regardless of the level of development. Most asthma-related deaths occur in low- and lower-middle-income countries.
Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs. The illness inflames the bronchial airways and causes them to get narrow, making it harder to breathe for an individual. A severe case of asthma can also make it difficult for someone to stay active or even talk.
Dr Datar, Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd says it’s a new threat has emerged to asthma patients in the form of COVID-19. The risk and severity of the infection seems to be higher in patients suffering from chronic diseases and weakened immunity.
Major signs of Asthma
The disease results in a swelling of bronchial tubes in the lungs of an individual which damages them severely. During normal breathing, the bands of muscle surrounding your airways are relaxed which leads to easy movement of air. Due to asthma, however, the muscles get stiff making it harder for the air to pass through.Individuals suffering from the illness also have delicate airways that frequently overreact and narrow during the slightest of triggers.
Symptoms
Not every individual suffering from asthma witnesses the same kind of symptoms. The symptoms also differ from one asthma attack to the next, ranging from mild to severe.
Ziqitza Limited says I f you have asthma, you need to do what you can to cut your exposure to asthma triggers. Asthma triggers can aggravate your symptoms -- coughing, wheezing, and having a hard time catching your breath. While there’s no cure, there are steps you can take to keep your asthma in control and prevent an attack.
1. Identify Asthma Triggers
Certain asthma triggers can set off a cascade of asthma symptoms. These include:
Air pollution
Allergies
Cold air
A cold or flu virus
Sinusitis
Smoke
Fragrances
Ziqitza Rajasthan & ZHL Rajasthan says it’s vital to learn to identify your asthma triggers and take steps to avoid them.
Keep track of your symptoms in an asthma diary for several weeks. Detail all the environmental and emotional things that affect your asthma. When you have an asthma attack, check the diary to see which thing, or combination of things, might have led to it. Some common asthma triggers, like molds and cockroaches, aren’t always obvious. Ask your asthma specialist about tests to find the allergens you respond to. Then take steps to avoid them.
If you have exercise-induced asthma, are planning a heavy workout, or plan to exercise in cold, humid, or dry air, take steps to prevent an asthma attack. Follow your doctor's advice on asthma treatment (usually by using an asthma inhaler containing the drug albuterol).
2. Stay Away From Allergens
If you have allergies and asthma, it’s important to keep your distance from allergens (things you’re allergic to). Allergen exposure can increase the inflammation in your airways for a while, making an attack more likely.
3. Avoid Smoke of Any Type
Smoke and asthma are a bad mix. Limit exposure to all sources of smoke, including tobacco, incense, candles, fires, and fireworks. Don’t allow smoking in your home or car, and avoid public places that permit it. If you smoke cigarettes, get help to quit. Smoking always makes asthma worse.
4. Prevent Colds
Do what you can to stay well. Avoid close contact with people who have a cold or the flu, because catching it will make your asthma symptoms worse. Wash your hands well if you handle items that someone with a respiratory infection may have touched.
5. Take Asthma Medications as Prescribed
Long-term asthma medications are designed to prevent symptoms and attacks. You need to take them every day, even if you don’t have symptoms. They’ll ease inflammation in your airways and keep your asthma under control, so it’s less likely to flare up. If side effects bother you, talk to your doctor about switching to another treatment.
6. Follow Your Asthma Action Plan
Take your meds, even when you feel OK. If you notice symptoms, check your plan for instructions on what medications to take. During an attack, the plan can tell you what meds will help and when it’s time to call the doctor.
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