Asthma is a disease that impacts breathing. It is a chronic condition, making any physical activity difficult or even impossible.
Currently, 27 million people are suffering from asthma in the U.S., and it is most common among children. Also known as bronchial asthma, it can affect people at any age. The disease is often underdiagnosed and mistreated, especially in low- and middle-income countries. People with asthma frequently miss their school or work because of its ongoing symptoms. Hence, to better control the condition, one can visit any local asthma clinic for expert treatment and advice.
Everybody experiences asthma symptoms differently and it’s necessary to have some knowledge about it. Generally when we breathe, air goes in through our nose or mouth, passing to the throat, and into our airways, finally reaching the lungs. This way, lots of small air passages in our lungs help deliver oxygen from the air to our bloodstream. The symptoms of asthma start becoming visible when the lining of our airways swells and the muscles around them tighten.
Caused by inflammation and muscular tightness around the airways, if the symptoms of asthma get severe, people may require emergency medical care and can also be admitted to hospitals for prompt treatment and monitoring. Moreover, untreated asthma poses challenging symptoms in people like problems in sleeping, feeling tired during the daytime, and difficulty concentrating.
Every now and then, the symptoms can worsen dramatically, called an asthma attack. Usually, at night or during exertion, symptoms may worsen. The following are typical signs of asthma:
When asthma patients are sick, or when the weather is changing, some people can experience more serious symptoms. Some other issues that aggravate the condition include animal hair or feathers, harsh soaps, fragrances, smoke, dust, and odors, often leading to deteriorating symptoms.
Your healthcare professional will go over your medical history, including information about your parents and siblings. They will also inquire about your symptoms, further discussing if you ever had allergies, eczema, or any other lung disorders.
After examining properly, your doctor may prescribe spirometry. This test monitors airflow through your lungs and is used to diagnose and track your progress throughout the treatment. Furthermore, chest X-ray, blood test, or skin test can also be requested by your healthcare provider.
Asthma is a chronic disorder that cannot be cured, although it can be treated with a variety of medications, including inhalers. Inhalers give medication directly to the lungs, aiding in disease management and allowing asthma sufferers to live normal, active lives. Inhalers are classified into two types: bronchodilators, which expand airways and relieve symptoms, and steroids, which decrease inflammation and improve symptoms.
Furthermore, spacer devices, such as plastic containers with mouthpieces or masks, can make inhaler use more convenient. However, many nations have limited access to inhalers, with bronchodilators accessible in half of low- and low-middle-income countries and steroids in one-third. Hence, raising awareness and educating people regarding asthma and its symptoms is essential to minimize misconceptions.