What is Asthma?

Airways become slender and obtain constricted and there's excess secretion production in respiratory disorder.It makes breathing difficult and also triggers wheezing and coughing. For some asthma is just a minor ailment. Others might not be able to function and may have near fatal experiences. Even though it can’t be cured. The symptoms are manageable. As it can change with time, it is necessary that your doctor tracks your symptoms and signs and adjusts treatment as required. It isn’t known as to why some people have asthma while others don’t. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role in this.

What trrigers Asthma?

Ø     Being exposed to various substances and irritants that might trigger allergies or the asthma symptoms and signs.

Ø     Airborne particles like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, cockroach waste and mold spores.

Ø     Common cold

Ø     Exertion induced

Ø     Chilly air

Ø    Emotional overload and stress

Ø     Irritants and air particles like smoke

Ø     Certain medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen, beta blockers and naproxen

Ø     Preservatives and sulfites

Ø     GERD or gastro esophageal disease, an acid reflux condition

The chances of asthma increase for a number of reasons. These are:

Ø  Having a relative with asthma

Ø  Having other allergic conditions like allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis

Ø  Smoking excessively

Ø  Having a high BMR

Ø  Being exposed to passive smoke

Ø  Being exposed to pollution or fumes

Ø  Having an occupation which involves dealing with chemical 

Diagnosis and Treatment

It is necessary to do a physical exam to rule out other possibilities like COPD (chronic-obstructive pulmonary disease) or respiratory infections. The doctor will conduct these tests and question about your symptoms and signs.

Ø     Lung Function Tests- Pulmonary or lung function tests can determine the amount of air moving out and in during breathing. They may include: Spirometry- This tests for the widening of the bronchi by seeing how much air is exhaled after deep breathing.

Ø     Peak flow- A peak-flow meter is quiet a simple instrument that checks the intensity of the exhalation.A low reading on the meter would possibly indicate that the lungs aren’t operating to their best potency which the respiratory disorder is deteriorating.A doctor will instruct you on how the peak flow measurements are to be interpreted and tracked.

Ø    A medicine called bronchodilator is taken after or before a lung function test, to open the airways up.

Can't be cured, but treatment helps
Self diagnosable
Lab test not required
Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
Non communicable

Symptoms

Ø  Pain in the chest

Ø  Troubled breathing

Ø  Wheezing

Ø  Irritated or inflammed throat

Ø  Mouth breathing

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