Asthma is a chronic inflammatory illness in the form of airflow obstruction. Most people experience this condition at a young age due to allergic reactions. Symptoms normally disappear as the person grows older but some are unfortunate to still have it up to their adult age. Below are some guidelines you can adhere to in coping with Asthma.
Signs and Symptoms
You can tell if a patient has Asthma by constant wheezing, shortness of breath, tightening of the chest and coughing. These signs manifest strongly during intense activities and taking in cold air in the morning or evening. Some may not even experience these symptoms unless they expose themselves to substances that trigger airflow obstruction. It may also be an underlying condition from a visible illness such as acid reflux, sinusitis, and sleep apnea.
Causes of the Condition
A number of factors can stimulate asthma. Be aware of these factors as they can tell the severity of the condition and possible treatments:
– Environment: The most common victims of these environmental aspects are the children. Simple exposure to air contaminants like carbon monoxide can induce symptoms. Hair particles from pets such as cats, dogs, and birds can also initiate the condition. Some perfumes may take the form of allergens that cause asthma.
– Hygiene: Like what causes colds and coughs, bacteria and viruses can also lead to asthmatic symptoms. Reports also say that Antibiotics can bring asthma as substantial amounts can prevent the immune system from fighting certain germs that may cause the condition.
– Hereditary: Recent studies show that genetic compositions also contribute to the cause of asthma. Patients are born with asthma, but there a just some genes that prove susceptible to irritants and environmental contaminants.
– Previous Illness: History of allergies that may have occurred in the past increases the chance of a person to exhibit asthma symptoms. Obesity can also cause the condition as a common side effect of it is shortness of breath.
Knowing these factors can be a stepping-stone for getting the appropriate asthma treatment.
Known Treatments
Due to the different asthma medicines available, some patients confuse themselves on which one to buy. You have to know that asthma medication come in two types. The first one is the “controller” type. Patients can take these medications every single day to prevent asthma symptoms and attacks. The second one is the “quick relief” type. Asthma sufferers can take this medication during the course of an attack and nullifies the symptoms. When looking to buy one, ask the pharmacist the specific type you want.
Preventive Measures
Patients may avoid asthma attacks if they recognized the symptoms immediately. It is true that asthma is incurable but sufferers can learn to manage them. A change of lifestyle is important in dealing with the condition. Avoid asthma stimulants such as allergens, tobacco smoke, carbon monoxide, and sulfite-containing foods. Maintain hygiene in the house for maximum deterrence of the condition. You can also ask you local doctor about long-term medications for asthma treatment
