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World Asthma Day is observed annually to emphasise the importance of asthma awareness and effective management. More than 260 million people worldwide have asthma. To lead active and fulfilling lives, individuals with asthma need to adopt certain strategies to manage and control their condition effectively. In this blog, we will outline common asthma symptoms seen in people and tips for managing the disease.
Why Managing Asthma Is Important
Asthma isn't just about the occasional wheezing or shortness of breath. It is a condition that has a profound impact on people, especially young kids, as they tend to suffer due to sudden flare-ups with symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and tiredness – this restricts them to their homes and ongoing care for most of their childhood.
And with recent data, it appears that over 25 million elderly Indians will be living with asthma by 2050 – this indicates that asthma is not just a childhood disease anymore; it brings equal risk for our vulnerable elderly population.
Read More: Asthma Awareness: 9 Essential Facts to Know
Types of Asthma
Asthma can be classified in several ways, including by its triggers, time of day, and severity. However, the most common types of asthma we notice among patients can be:
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Allergic Asthma: Triggered by allergens – pollen, pet dander, or mold – major culprits
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Occupational Asthma: Workplace irritants like chemicals, dust, or gases are responsible
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Exercise-Induced Asthma: Asthma symptoms tend to appear or worsen during or after physical activity, especially in cold, dry air (winters)
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Seasonal Asthma: Asthma can be triggered during specific seasons, especially when pollen count is higher in the air during spring or cold air in winter
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Nocturnal Asthma: Symptoms are worse or more frequent at night
Read our blog: How Is Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) Related To Asthma
Top 7 Tips to Keep Your Asthma Under Control
Management of asthma isn’t just about taking medications during flare-ups. It requires proper management to control sudden asthma attacks, prevent long-term lung damage from chronic respiratory inflammation, and lead a better quality of life.
Here are our top 7 tips to control asthma:
1. Develop a Personalised Asthma Action Plan
Work with your expert pulmonologist in Salem to create a comprehensive asthma treatment plan. With a clear strategy, you will be prepared to act when needed.
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Daily Management: Take your asthma medications and avoid known triggers.
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Recognising Worsening Symptoms: Identify early signs of asthma attacks and prepare yourself to handle such situations.
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Emergency Protocols: Have clear steps to take during severe episodes. For instance, carry a quick-relief inhaler containing fast-acting medications, like albuterol, for sudden asthma attacks.
2. Identify and Avoid Triggers
Knowing what triggers your asthma is key to preventing flare-ups. These triggers vary from person to person, so it's essential to track yours. Some known triggers include:
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Allergen: Indoor and outdoor allergens, like dust mites, pollen, mould, and pet dander, can inflame your airways.
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Irritants: Tobacco smoke, strong perfumes, cleaning products, and air pollution can quickly worsen symptoms.
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Physical Activity: Intense exercise can lead to exercise-induced bronchospasm. Warming up is crucial.
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Weather Conditions: Cold, dry air or sudden shifts in temperature can irritate your lungs.
3. Adhere to Prescribed Medications
Asthma medications are typically divided into two types. The first are daily controller medications that help reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms. The second is reliever medications used during an asthma attack to open airways quickly. Consistent use of prescribed drugs is vital even when symptoms aren't present.
4. Monitor Your Symptoms Regularly
Keeping track of your symptoms helps in the early detection of potential issues. Tools like a peak flow meter can measure lung function, indicating if your asthma is under control or adjustments are needed.
Common Symptoms – Asthma
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Wheezing (whistle sound while exhaling)
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Coughing (increases at night/early morning)
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Chest tightness
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
You must maintain a healthy lifestyle since overall health is also a factor. Incorporate habits that support respiratory health, such as:
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Balanced Diet: Eat foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Regular Exercise: Engage in activities suitable for your condition. Keep the body fit.
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Adequate Sleep: Ensure restful nights to support overall health.
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Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques to prevent stress-induced symptoms.
6. Keep Your Environment Clean
Your home environment plays a significant role in managing asthma. Dust, mould, and pests can silently trigger symptoms. Hence, you need to engage in:
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Regular Cleaning: Vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA-filter vacuum, and dust surfaces with a damp cloth.
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Control Humidity: Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans to prevent mould growth.
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Pest Control: Cockroach droppings and rodent dander are potent asthma triggers. Regularly screen your house for pests.
7. Regular Medical Check-ups
Seeing your doctor is essential even when your asthma seems under control. Under these visits will be:
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Assessment of Asthma Control: Your doctor will assess your symptoms, lung function, and medication usage to determine how well your asthma is managed.
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Medication Adjustments: You might need changes due to age, lifestyle, or new symptoms.
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Early Detection of Complications: Routine check-ups can catch signs of worsening asthma or side effects from medication.
For more information, read our blog: Tips To Control Asthma During the Rainy Season
Conclusion
Asthma management is an ongoing journey that requires commitment and proactive care. Understanding your condition is necessary for making informed decisions. Attend workshops, consult healthcare professionals, and stay updated on asthma management strategies. Talk to others to learn their management techniques and gain more ideas. By implementing these strategies, you can take control of your health and live a life free from asthma's limitations.
Consult a pulmonologist in Salem if you notice asthma symptoms that don’t go away easily!
FAQ's
To reduce airway inflammation and avoid asthma symptoms, controller drugs are used every day. During an asthma attack or an abrupt escalation of symptoms, reliever drugs offer immediate relief.
Yes, physical activity can induce asthma symptoms in some individuals. However, most people with asthma can safely exercise with proper management and precautions.
You should evaluate and update your asthma action plan at least once a year. Also, if your symptoms or course of treatment needs to be changed, do visit your doctor for guidance.
Breathing exercises and specific dietary changes can improve asthma symptoms. However, you should discuss with your doctor so he can guide you with proper measures to control asthma.
Signs of poorly controlled asthma can be frequent flare-ups, regular use of reliever medications, nighttime awakenings due to coughing or wheezing, and limitations in daily activities.
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