Asthma management

How do I minimize frequent asthma attacks?
(24 Jan 2008)

Asthma is a serious chronic (long-term) disease that affects over 25 million Americans, both young and old. It causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, build-up of excess mucous in the lungs, and tightening of the bronchial muscles. All of these combine to make breathing.

In addition, the tissues of the airways become very sensitive to external stimuli, such as airborne pollution, and allergens. Exposure to any such material leads to an intense ‘asthma attack’, where the bronchial tubes are constricted and the patient may not be able to breath at all. Many patients also suffer attacks in response to stress or sudden, strenuous physical activity.

Unfortunately, no single cause for asthma has been identified, though medical opinion is that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is also no cure for asthma, and doctors usually prescribe medication only to manage the symptoms. These include short-term medication that is used to relieve an asthma attack, and long-term prescriptions that attempt to keep the airways dilated and free of excess mucous. However, the only effective method is for you to maintain a lifestyle that avoids asthma triggers.

The first step is to avoid airborne particles, as far as possible. Maintain a clean environment to reduce dust mites and particles, keep windows shut and use air conditioners to reduce pollen and air pollution. Stay away from smokers at all costs; secondhand smoke is a major trigger of attacks. Maintain a humidity of around 40% and fix all water leaks to avoid developing mold at home. If you live in a cold climate, always wear a scarf around your mouth when outdoors; this helps to warm the air entering your lungs, since cold air causes a constriction of the bronchial tubes. Some foods can trigger attacks, including peanuts and shellfish. Maintain a ‘food diary’ to identify and eliminate any potential allergens from your diet. If you a coffee drinker, you are in luck, since caffeine helps to relax and dilated the airways. Hot, spicy foods can help as well, since chili peppers stimulate excess fluids that help to ‘water down’ mucous in the lungs, making it much easier to expel. Some studies have shown that eating foods rich in vitamin C can reduce asthma symptoms, including wheezing. If you are overweight, please lose the excess pounds, since they intensify your asthma. Regular, non-strenuous exercise also helps to reduce stress and maintain a strong immune system. Since asthma increases the risk of contracting influenza (including the swine flu), make sure you get annual flu shots from your doctor.

answered by G M on 6 Apr 2010, 6:34:42

Reducing Asthma Attacks

Millions of people deal with asthma each day. It is not an easy illness. Many times, asthma means that a person must take medications every day and must watch out for common triggers. The good news is that even when you suffer from asthma, whether it is related to allergies or other medical conditions, there are things that you can do. You can take action to help reduce the number and the severity of asthma attacks. Here are some tips you can put into action today.

One of the first things you will want to do when you need to reduce the chances of asthma is to make sure you know what triggers your attacks. If you have never been officially diagnosed with asthma, then you may not know exactly why you suffer. Many times, triggers include upper respiratory issues, allergies and even certain kinds of weather can trigger an attack. When you know what triggers your attacks, you will have an easier time reducing the attacks.

The next thing you will need to do to reduce your attacks is to watch your allergies. Most people that suffer from asthma also suffer from allergies, which can often be triggers. This includes washing pet dander from your clothes or hands and making sure that you keep your house clean (such as vacuuming your carpet and furniture often). Many people also use indoor humidifiers and air purifiers, which can help cleanse the air of your home. If you open the windows to your home, you may introduce outdoor allergens into your home.

You can also help reduce the asthma attacks by watching the weather. If you live in a hot area, make sure that you do not go out on days when the ozone levels are high. High winds can also stir up allergens, which will trigger attacks.
All of these things can help reduce your asthma attacks and will help you live a healthier life.

answered by A K on 24 Jan 2008, 6:10:25

Asthma management

How do I minimize frequent asthma attacks? (24 Jan 2008)

How do I minimize frequent asthma attacks?
(24 Jan 2008)