ASTHMA - Slideshow

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that involves inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, or airways, resulting in breathing difficulty.

When inflamed the airways become highly sensitive and react adversely to certain triggers that induce the onset of an asthmatic attack.Asthma is the most chronic childhood disease affecting 1 in 15 children. Its incidence, among adults too, has increased dramatically in the recent years.

Normal airway

Air is inhaled through the nostrils and mouth and enters the air sacs in the lungs through the bronchial tubes.

Asthma affects Breathing

During an asthma attack the bronchial tubes become narrow due to

Inflammation - due to response to an allergen. Bronchospasm - causing airway constriction. Hyperactivity - Inflammation causes the bronchial tubes to become very sensitive to 'triggers' causing further inflammation.

Asthma triggers - Allergens

Pollens from seasonal plants and trees

Dust mites, pets, molds and insect parts Foods- eggs, fish, nuts, peanuts, soy, cow's milk Latex Additives

Asthma triggers - Irritants

Respiratory infections

GERD Weather changes Exercising Emotional / Hormonal factors Certain medications Smoke, Perfumes, deodorants, paints, detergents

Types

Extrinsic, or allergic asthma, form 90% of all asthma cases.It typically starts during childhood and can go into remission during early adulthood, only to reappear later.

Intrinsic or non-allergic asthma, develops during adulthood and is present in 10% of all cases.The condition usually appears after a respiratory infection, is chronic and is often difficult to treat

Symptoms

Shortness of breath

Chest tightness Wheezing Persistent coughing

Sudden Asthma Attack

A sudden, or acute asthma attack, occurs after an episode of allergen exposure or after an upper respiratory tract infection.

It does not,usually, respond to the regular medications and could be life-threatening. During an acute asthma attack, emergency medical attention must be sought, at the earliest

Diagnosis

The following tests help to diagnose asthma -

Lung Function Test(LFT) Chest X -ray Allergy tests Other blood tests to detect level of IgE, present in increased amounts during allergy

Treatment

Common asthma treatments include -

Avoidance of asthma - precipitating triggers Oral or Inhaled medications - the latter are usually preferred Inhalers / bronchodilatorsMake sure you get the right treatment. Remember, life with asthma is possible!