Overview
- It is a chronic lung disease
- It creates narrowing of air passages of the lung
- Produces difficulty in breathing.
Symptoms
- Wheezing
- Cough and cold
- Tightness in the chest
- Sticky mucus
- Disturbed sleep
- Breathlessness
Causes
- Hereditary factors
- Environmental factors like dust, mite, pollen
- Occupational exposure to irritants
- Dietary Changes
- Lack of exercise
Asthma Triggering Factors
- Colds and viruses
- Irritants like Cigarette smoke, scent, pollution
- Cold air or change in weather
- Physical exertion
- Allergens like dust, mite, pollen, furs
- Some medications
- Infections
- Stress
Myths about asthma
- It is contagious
- It cannot be controlled
- Asthma medicines are addictive
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Management of Asthma
- Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled
- Keep the house clean
- Use hardwood floors or tile
- Avoid carpets in house
- Avoid pets with fur or feathers
- Use clean bed sheets & pillow covers
- Use bed made of synthetic materials
- Use air conditioner
- Maintain low humidity at home
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Treatment
- Anti-inflammatory drugs include:
- Steroid Inhalers
- Sodium Chromoglycate
- Inhalers / Capsules
- Treatment – Bronchodilators
- Common bronchodilators include:
- Salbutamol Inhalers
- Terbutaline Tabs
- Consult your Pulmonologist
Famous sports person with asthma
- Ian Botham (Cricketer)
- Jackie Joyner Kersee (Athlete)
- Mark Spitz (Swimmer)
