WHAT IS ASTHMA?

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the respiratory passages of our lungs. Asthma is caused by the inflammation of these respiratory passages (bronchi). The inflammation is triggered by many external and internal factors. The breathing problems caused by asthma prove to be a challenge to the daily activities of a person. Chronic disease management of asthma is therefore important for asthma patients to lead a normal life.

CAUSES AND TRIGGERS OF ASTHMA ATTACKS

The exact cause behind asthma is not yet known. In some people asthma is found hereditarily where as in some it is caused due to poor environmental conditions.

Following are the common triggers for asthma attacks. Elimination of these triggers is the preliminary step in chronic disease management of asthma:

1. Tobacco smoking and excess exposure to wood smoke.

2. Polluted air.

3. Inhalation of respiratory irritants such as perfumes, room fresheners, insecticides etc.

4. Inhalation of allergens such as dust.

5. Asthmatic attacks are found in some women along with their menstrual cycles.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS AND HOW CAN ASTHMA BE DIAGONISED?

Asthmatic attacks are characterized by frequent wheezing, chest tightness, disability to breathe, Coughing and difficulties in speaking. The symptoms may be shown at any time during day time or night time. Asthmatic attacks are of two types:

1. Intermittent: Intermittent attacks occur twice a week or month. The intensity of attack may vary from time to time. Attacks won’t last for more than a few hours.

2. Persistent: Persistent attacks can be mild, moderate or severe. Attacks occur more than twice a week in case of first two. Whereas in case of severe attacks the frequency of attack is high.

Chronic disease management of asthma has a better chance to control asthma if diagnosis is done in the early stages. Tests are done with the help of various instruments such as: Spirometer, peak flow meter, Oximeter etc.

TREATMENT PREVENTION AND MEDICAL HELP FOR ASTHMA

Asthma being a chronic disease it can never be treated completely it can only be managed. The main objectives of chronic disease management of asthma are the following:

1. Prevention and control of the symptoms.

2. Help the patients carry on their daily activities.

3. Help the lungs to maintain a near normal function.

Medical treatment for asthma is given through inhalations like MDI, steroid medications, face mask or nebulizer etc. Following a number of self care measures like: