Asthma is a chronic condition that causes recurring asthma attacks of breathing difficulties. It is often triggered by exposure to allergens. People with asthma will experience shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness in the chest if their asthma attack becomes very severe.
There are various types of asthma, and the symptoms may differ from person to person. People who have asthma need to manage their condition by avoiding triggers and keeping track of maintenance medications such as inhalers. The best way to manage asthma is by knowing about your triggers and keeping an inhaler nearby at all times. Here we will discuss some common questions about asthma and its treatment:
What are the different types of asthma?
types of asthma include: –
- Childhood asthma – this is the most common type of asthma. It affects people of all ages and can be triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and pet hair.
- Allergic asthma – this is triggered by allergies, such as hay fever, food allergies, and environmental triggers, like mold, pollution, and cigarette smoke.
- Exercise-induced asthma – this type affects people who exercise regularly, especially those who breathe in cold air.
- Chronic asthma – this type of asthma has been present since childhood. – Severe asthma – this is a rare condition where the walls of the airways swell and become blocked, causing breathlessness and coughing spasms.
How do you manage asthma?
To manage asthma, you need to be aware of your triggers. Once you know what your triggers are, you can take suitable action to avoid them. You will also need to keep track of your asthma medications. You should also keep your home clean and tidy, as this will help to reduce exposure to allergens. There are various ways in which you can manage your asthma.
Some vital tips to manage asthma are :-
- Clean your home regularly – this will help to reduce some of the allergens that may be triggering your asthma.
- Keep track of your medications – if you have asthma, it is important to keep track of your medications. Note down how many sprays you take and when you take them. This will help your doctor to track your progress.
- Exercise regularly – regular exercise can help to control your asthma. Exercise can also help you to reduce stress, which can also be helpful when managing asthma.
What is an asthma flare-up?
An asthma flare-up is the term used to describe an asthma attack. It is a situation in which your airways swell and narrow, causing difficulty breathing. People with asthma may experience a flare-up when exposed to triggers such as allergens, dust, smoke, infections, or stress.
With acute asthma, the symptoms usually worsen very quickly. If you have asthma, you will know when you are about to have a flare-up (Asthma attack) as your breathing becomes more difficult. You may need to use your inhaler or take an antihistamine to relieve the symptoms. You should also stay indoors to avoid exposure to triggers to keep asthma attacks in check.
Is steroid medication the only asthma treatment ?
Steroid medication is often prescribed to treat asthma. While these asthma treatment are helpful in the short term, they do nothing to reduce the frequency of flare-ups. In fact, they may be harmful in the long term.
In addition to taking steroids, you can also use alternative therapies like acupuncture or yoga to manage asthma. Acupuncture – can improve symptoms such as tightness of the chest and wheezing. Yoga – can also improve symptoms.
Can diet help with asthma symptoms?
Research has shown a link between diet and asthma symptoms. Diet may not be the only causative factor, but it may help to control your asthma. Some foods that may help to control asthma include: –
- Green leafy vegetables – these are rich in vitamin C, which is helpful during asthma attacks. It also helps to boost the immune system.
- Citrus fruits – these are also rich in vitamin C, which can help to reduce asthma symptoms.
- Fish – Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help to lower the risk of asthma.
- Fruits and vegetables – they are rich in fiber, which can help to prevent constipation.
- Dairy products – milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium, which can help to reduce asthma symptoms.
- Whole grains – they are rich in fiber and nutrients, which can help to reduce asthma attacks.
How can exercise help with asthma?
Exercise can be helpful for people with asthma. It helps to reduce stress, which can be a trigger for asthma. It can also help to get the body fit and lose weight. Fit bodies and healthy weights can help to reduce asthma symptoms.
When you exercise regularly, your lungs get stronger and are less likely to be affected by asthma. Exercises like yoga, swimming, and walking are some of the best ways to get your body fit and healthy. You can also do some weight-lifting exercises, which will boost your lungs health in long run.
Final Words
Asthma is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is important to know how to manage your asthma and how to avoid triggers to reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and cleanliness are helpful in reducing asthma symptoms. Keep track of your medication, use regular cleaning products, and avoid triggers to reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
FAQs
how asthma is diagnosed ?
- The diagnosis of asthma usually starts with a medical history and physical exam. The doctor will ask about symptoms and family history of asthma. They will also do a physical exam to look for signs of asthma such as wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.
- The diagnosis is confirmed by testing the lungs with a spirometry test or peak flow meter test. These tests measure how much air you can blow out in one second (forced expiratory volume) or how fast you can blow it out (peak flow).
- FeNO test – The FeNO test measures the amount of nitric oxide in a person’s breath. Nitric oxide is a gas that is produced by cells in the lining of the airways and lungs. The higher amount (2-3x) of nitric oxide in someone’s breath is suggestive of asthma.
What are the symptoms of asthma ?
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes the airways to narrow and swell.
Symptoms of asthma include:
– Wheezing
– Chest tightness
– Shortness of breath
– Coughing
– Fatigue or tiredness
– Difficulty breathing or speaking
– Feeling like you are choking or suffocating
How asthma is caused?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways and causes inflammation. Asthma is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The most common triggers are allergens, irritants, and infections.