Asthma

What is the chronic respiratory condition called "asthma?"
Asthma is a prevalent respiratory condition that makes it challenging to breathe. Unfortunately, asthma affects any individual regardless of age and typically begins in childhood. Still, asthma can develop at any stage as an adult.

Asthma arises from inflammation within the breathing tubes that transport air inside and outside the lungs. As a result, the tubes are extremely sensitive, increasing the likelihood of restriction within the tubes. An asthma attack can occur spontaneously or as a result of specific triggers such as inhalation of certain chemicals, pollen, strenuous physical activity, certain medications and extreme weather patterns (thunderstorms & high humidity).

 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

  • A whistling noise between breaths is known as a "wheeze”.
  • Catching your breath and finding it hard to breathe in general.
  • Chest tightness (restricted feeling inside the chest).
  • A cough.

HOW DO YOU DIAGNOSE ASTHMA?

Certain types of tests are conducted to diagnose asthma in patients, such as the following:

  • Spirometry is carried out by expelling air into an external machine. The test assesses the patient’s breathing rate and the capacity of air that can be stored in the lungs.
  • A peak flow test lets you expel air into a small handheld device that measures your breathing rate.

HOW DO YOU TREAT ASTHMA?

Unfortunately, there is no permanent relief from asthma, but there are medications Dr Hoosen may decide to prescribe based on the patient’s medical evaluation.

Treatment for asthma consists of the following:

  • Inhalers are the primary treatment for asthma, which help relieve asthma symptoms and, in some cases, prevent symptoms from occurring. Sometimes preventative and relief inhalers prove ineffective, in which case, Dr Hoosen may prescribe a combination inhaler.
  • Prescription tablets (Leukotriene receptor antagonists, Theophylline & steroids) depending on the patient.
  • Secondary therapies (breathing exercises, following a healthy diet & manual therapies) complement primary treatments.

FAQ

1Can asthma ever permanently go away?
Asthma (bronchial asthma) is a long-term condition that impacts the airways.
2What are the primary causes of asthma?
The leading causes of asthma include the following:
  • Occupational exposures
  • Genetic
  • Allergies
  • Childhood lung infections
  • Obesity
  • smoking
  • Respiratory infections.
3Can asthma weaken the lungs?
Asthma can cause irreversible damage if not managed appropriately.

Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts.

Thich Nhat Hanh

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