Overview
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease which can be caused by inflammation of the airways or a hypersensitivity reaction. Symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. These symptoms can range from mild to severe among sufferers. It is estimated that 10% of all Australians live with asthma.
Asthma Causes
People can develop asthma for a number of reasons. The most common factors include having a family history of the disease, suffering from other allergic conditions such as eczema, having bronchiolitis as a child, exposure to tobacco smoke, and being born prematurely or with a low birth weight.
Triggers
Asthma symptoms can be triggered by a number of things, and will differ between sufferers. Some common asthma triggers include chest infections, allergens such as pollen and dust mites, cigarette smoke, air pollutants, chemical fumes, some pain killers such as ibuprofen and aspirin, stress, exercise, weather conditions such as wind and cold air, household mould and some foods such as processed and precooked meals.
Asthma Treatments & Management
While there is no cure for asthma, it can be controlled by a number of treatments. Asthma treatments provide the relief of symptoms, while also preventing future attacks. Your doctor will be able to provide the best treatment options for you. The most common treatment is an asthma reliever. This is an inhaler which works by relaxing the airway muscles and making it easier to breathe. A spacer should also be used to increase the amount of medication reaching the lungs if the patient (especially a child) finds the inhaler too hard to use.
With the right treatment, sufferers of asthma can lead a normal, healthy life. Sufferers are encouraged to exercise and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Avoiding triggers such as allergens and cigarette smoke will significantly decrease the number and severity of asthma symptoms. Night time is when the symptoms of asthma are the worst, so managing your asthma will reduce the symptoms and allow you to get a restful sleep. Asthma sufferers are also encouraged to get the flu injection every year. Book your flu vaccination today at Michael’s Chemist.
Learn More
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